Off to School

Katie started "school" this week. I like calling it "school" instead of daycare, although I'm not sure what the difference is at 18 months of age. They do have a specific curriculum they follow with a letter of the week, number of the week, and sign language sign of the week - plus music, art, and other activities.

School/Daycare has been a big debate in our house for the past couple months. My mom's time in Richmond is coming to an end in April. I'm so sad to see her go for many reasons. First, she's my mom and excluding Matt - she's my best friend. The selfish side of me loves having her here in Richmond. I also love the bond that she and Katie have developed from spending so much quality time together. I hate to see anything change that - though I know when mom goes back to Woolwine it will be different.

Matt and I considered hiring a nanny, but that option has its drawbacks as well. Katie needs some socialization, and she will get that from school - but she wouldn't from a nanny. I have all the usual concerns.... How often will she be sick? How will she adjust to the separation from mommy, daddy, and nana? Will she thrive in such a different environment, or suffer some developmental setbacks? Is school the best option for her? Is 18 months too early to start? My list of questions is endless. But, sometimes you've just got to give things a try.

So, that's what we are doing....giving it a try. This week Katie attended 2 days from 9-12 AM. On her first day she cried for the first few minutes, but shortly after we left she was happily playing with new toys and new kids. On Day two, she was a little more tentative, but didn't cry at all. Unfortunately, she's had some trouble going down for naps this week. We can't tell if its related to the transition to school - or if its related to the 2 teeth she's currently cutting.

Next week Katie will be attending school 4 days a week. Its going to be interesting to see how it works out. I'm hopeful that her 2nd week will be as good as the first!!

The pictures for this post are from her first day of "school." Mommy and Daddy's big girl!!! :-) (Sniff, Sniff).