FMO for Edith!

Back in December I received some exciting news about Friday Morning Out! After my first time volunteering there (the rotation schedule has me there about every 4 weeks) with Edith, I realized that she would probably benefit from the program.  I was really unsure as she is pretty clingy to Uncas and I, but after being in the room that she would be placed in, I realized that it would be ok. Unfortunately when I inquired about signing up Edith, there was a waiting list.  I wasn't sure how long the list was, so I just figured that she wouldn't get in and that was ok.  Imagine my surprise when the program director told me in December that starting in January Edith could start attending!

The toddler room which she is in doesn't have much structure, so calling it "school" is a big stretch.  There are two main teachers in her room and they do a lot of playing.  I have done all my volunteering in that room so far, so I knew exactly what to expect for Edith. Most of the kids who cried a lot back in September were totally fine in December.

When we walked in on Friday the teachers greeted Edith and were ready to make her feel comfortable. I quickly ducked out after saying good-bye before I could see any tears.  It was the fastest three hours of my life.  I spent the whole time cleaning the house and didn't get nearly as much done as I had planned. I knew Edith was in good hands and sure enough when I walked into the classroom, her back was to me and she was busy playing.  When I finally got her attention and she turned around, she was like - what?  She didn't seem excited to see me at all!!!  But the teachers assured me that she asked about me constantly :-)

I forgot to take pictures that morning, so I had the kids pose with their backpacks the other day.

I love this program. It's not only a great transition to school (Eddie will start 3 year old preschool this fall), but it also gives me a little break. I love staying home with the kids and I'm starting to realize how quickly this time is going by, but the break - oh the break is so nice!  Unfortunately I also learned this past Friday on Edith's first day, that this program won't be continuing next year.  I'm bummed for Edith, but I'm grateful that she at least has the opportunity this year.