Owen's First Day of School

We have a school boy in our house!  Owen started preschool September 13th.  He is attending Little Lights Preschool at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church on Mondays and Wednesdays.  And on Fridays, he goes to Friday Funday at the Shoreview Community Center.  It's been quite the change for him no longer being with Mom nearly 100% of the time. 

On his first day, he seemed in a pretty good mood as he got dressed for school.  But when I gently reminded him that Mom wouldn't be able to stay with him, I could see the worry in his eyes (hopefully he couldn't see that I was worried too!)  This would be the very first time that I left him with anyone who wasn't family or close friends.  I think it was a terrifying thought for both of us!  He felt a little better that he could bring his pal Froggy along to school.  At least then he wouldn't be alone!

We packed up his school bag, loaded everyone into the car and off we went.  As we got closer, the panic set in.  Owen started to cry, "Don't leave, Mom!"  Somehow I was able to keep it together and reassured him that if he wanted, I would wait outside his room until class was over.  I'm not sure if my compromise helped ease his concerns or not, but we continued on our way.  As we entered the building and made our way to the classroom, the tears welled up again.  I carried him into the classroom, and he wrapped his arms and legs around me so tight that I couldn't pry him off.  It was quite a traumatic experience for both of us as the teacher helped pry him loose and attempted to console my scared little 3 year old.

Cole and I hung outside the classroom, trying to peer inconspicuously through the window.  I guess we didn't do a very good job as Owen quickly spotted us which made him all the more upset.  But he eventually calmed down as I peeked one final time to make sure he was alright before reluctantly leaving.  When we arrived to pick him up, he was smiling!  He was glad to see us, but also had a great time at school.  Phew!!

The first couple weeks were the same, hard for him and hard for me.  But it wasn't long before he was running into the classroom leaving Mom standing at the door without even a hug!  I guess my little boy is growing up!