Probably one of the most difficult decisions we make as mothers, at least for me, is when to start our children in school.
Although everyone has a different opinion on the best age to start our kids in school, we all have our own circumstances and reasons. And whether it is at 3 months or 3 years old, it is very important that we take our time and thoroughly research our school options.
After all, this is the place where our little ones will spend most of their day.
I started contemplating the idea of putting my daughters in school since they turned 2. I felt it was the right age and that they needed more interaction and daily activities than they were receiving at home. Though they were home with our nanny (whom we loved dearly) – I felt they needed more.
My husband and I toured various preschools and we were shocked at some of the schools we came across. They were terrible! We also found some amazing schools. And when we found the one we were looking for, that met all our expectations, I still found an excuse.
I wasn’t quite ready to let go just yet.
As a working mom, I loved knowing that although they were not with me, my daughters were comfortable at home… napping in their own cribs, eating home-cooked meals and playing safely in their comfort zone. I loved being able to check on them through the cameras at any moment of the day. It gave me peace. So we decided to keep them home.
One month before their third birthday, and after much, much deliberating, my husband and I decided it was time. I chose to start them in July, during the summer, because I felt the adjustment would be easier – fewer kids and a more relaxed environment. I started talking to them about preschool weeks in advance. Mentioning all the activities they would do, my main focus was to get them excited and to look forward to this new adventure.
As the day finally arrived, they were so excited and happy for their new journey. When we got to their classroom, they met their teacher and Daddy and I told them that we would be back later to pick them up and kissed them goodbye.
Not one tear. No hesitation. We could not believe it.
My husband and I looked at each other, confused and sad at the fact that they were so okay. It was bittersweet, but it made me so incredibly happy. My babies were fine.
Throughout the day, I called the school about six times to find out how they were doing. They were more than okay. When I went to pick them up, they did not want to leave. They were happy. Needless to say, they loved their first day at their new school and the adjustment was so much easier than I expected. I was reassured that they were ready for this – more ready than I was.
Thinking of starting your little ones in preschool/daycare? Don’t forget to:
- Tour various schools and take your time to make a decision.
- Gather a list of must-haves and expectations of the school.
- Talk to your child about school in a way that excites them and tell them what to expect. Believe it or not, they understand.
Good luck mama, you got this!
