I have been home with these girls for the first years of their young lives. I knew this moment would come; walking through those big brown doors, reality rushed in. Suddenly, our babies are four years old, and it is time for preschool, ready or not.
As a mom of singletons before twins, this is not the first time we have done this; honestly, only one of our girls did not attend an early education program. From our personal experience, I don’t know that there is “a right or wrong” decision; it comes down to your family life.
Whatever your situation is, it is yours, without judgment.
My husband and I have juggled schedules and worked opposite shifts; we have worked two full-time jobs with varying hours, we were even fortunate enough to have had a good friend who nannied for us over the years.
However, things worked out differently this time around and I was able to stay-at-home with these girls (in addition to our older children) while my husband is busily taking care of our family.
Ready or Not?
Going to preschool does not replace the at-home learning and teaching environment. These kids are curious and there are no limits to what they will learn, so let’s give them those opportunities and embrace the growth.
Here are some things that I am looking forward to as we step into this new adventure:
As a twin mom, I worry about not only separation from myself, but more so from each other. (I have read plenty of perspectives and studies to know that it can be a touchy subject). We have prepared the girls as best as possible and will wait to see what happens in the first days and weeks. If needed, we have plenty of time to adjust as we figure out what is right for them.
Learning in new ways
All teachers adapt to their style of teaching. I am ready to watch them learn new things in new ways.
I am excited to see what questions they ask and what engages them daily.
- The biggest wins
- Just as important are those moments they were sad or disappointed in an outcome.
Social Skills and Development
- The excitement of making those first new friends
- Learning to work with others their same age
- Being able to share and problem solve
- Build confidence, self-esteem, and discovery
Building a new trust and showing respect
Sometimes I think that we forget that these teachers are often parents themselves, and they want the same things for our children. (They deserve credit, somedays I barely have patience for two, and we have seven!)
- I want my child to be okay with their teacher’s instruction and feel a sense of trust.
- Understanding their responsibilities because things happen
- the ability to simply ask questions when a need may arise
- Above all, be respectful! Behaviors and manners are important even when they don’t get what they want
Working on those big feelings and regulation
Big emotions are complex. Even as an adult, sometimes they are difficult to understand. Learning and understanding regulation takes time and practice.
It’s time …
It is time for them to venture into this big world of possibilities. They will be just fine after a few days. On the other hand, I will likely be blubbering away for the unforeseen future.
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