I think this is going to get some getting used to. The most annoying thing is the whole pick up and drop off exercise. Tracey was right – parking mothers are ruthless when it comes to parking spaces and giving way. Ugh!
Overall I am happy with the school I (finally) chose. The school does recognise the different styles of learning and try to incorporate all styles to accomodate the students. (I know I know – much easier for mum to do this at home – she knows her child and the way he learns). He has one of the best teachers at the school (according to my sister, cousin and other mothers) and I can see she is very relaxed with learning – she isn’t a pushy teacher. I like the way she is gradually introducing the kids into a “sitting in a desk” type of learning which by the way worked really well with me when I was a child but I don’t think will work very well with my son – he’s more of a run around, jump up and down sort of learner.
The school day starts off with play – they do whatever they want to do – dress ups, lego, cars, playdough, writing. It’s much much easier to let him go when I see he’s happy and playing rather than seeing him struggling to sit up straight and get that pencil grip PERFECT.
The literacy program utilises phonics as well as some whole word exercises. Thank goodness it uses both. 5 year old has already learnt to read most simple words..there are a few rules he is still to learn but I’m in no rush and am actually glad they are covering stuff he knows already – it will do wonders for his confidence. They encourage reading (like all schools should) but his teacher is not pushy. She is confident that all kids will learn when they are ready.
Ok..that’s about it I guess. Tracey – I owe you a huge email and an even bigger thank you for your advice last week!
« What? Your World View »


Don’t thank me. You’re a great mum who listens to her instincts when something is not right for her child and who acts on those feelings. That takes a lot of courage. I just gave you a shove… Very glad you both landed on your feet in such a supportive learning environment. Thinking of you all during your transition to school.
Tracey
PS. Stand your ground in the carpark. And get there early! Or park around the block and walk the remaining distance. Much safer for your car. I can’t tell you how many of the scratches and dints in my old car are from doors of other cars as the mother’s lean in to collect their toddlers out, or from school bags, or balls…
assalamu alaikum
Oh it’s so cute when a littlie heads off to school for their first time. I’m glad it all went smoothly. Thanks for all the details and please keep us updated with developments.
Umm Hamza (who is feeling some “ok enough with the homeschooling experiment – send her to school already!…for some REAL education”-type pressure. Especially since her two cousins, both girls, started school this year and loving it. Well, I say, “Let the comparisons begin!” No, no, not really
)