Speaking of my daughter's teachers, I must say they have to be among the best. I don't tell them enough how much they are appreciated. I recently ran across an article written by a preschool teacher with tips for what to do/not do as mom of a preschooler. I confess, I am guilty of a number of these, but I vow to reform.
For starters:
- I have been on my cell phone a few times when I've picked her up. Oops.
- I sent her to school in her stupid puppy flip flops because it was easier than arguing with her.
- I often linger too long when saying goodbye. Mother's guilt.
- I sent her to school once with this chicken toy that dances and sings the chicken dance. It is very annoying.
- Thi Thu helped me make their Christmas candy. And I told them that. In fairness, I washed her hands before we baked.
- There are many times when I've picked her up in workout clothes. Give me a break on this one. I should shower, redo my makeup, and put nice clothes back on just to look good when I pick her up? Sorry, don't agree with that one.
- I've chatted with other moms at pick up. Yes, I expect the teacher to still help me watch her. My childcare bills are nearly as much as a house payment, so I have no remorse about that expectation. Don't agree with that one either.
Jen, I too am guilty of picking Sienna up in workout gear. I don't think any of the girls have a problem with it either so I too disagree with that one.
ReplyDeleteLinger too long when dropping her off: guilty!
Chatted with other moms: guilty!
Have been 5/10 mins late collecting her: guilty! In my defense I dropped her off a half hour late also, 'cos Alana was sleeping!
How are you feeling by by the way? Ready for # 2's arrival? Hope all is going well
Elaine (BCDO)
Hi Jen :) Love your blog, you have a wonderful writing style! Ok on topic now..
ReplyDeleteWorkout gear, check. It is not feasible to shower and all that, the teachers see me for what, 10 mins? I wipe off and spritz on some fragrance so I don't stink.
Chat with other moms, check. I do, however, usually have a good eye on Matthew since by that point he is usually hugging my leg ready to go home.
Linger too long... yes, I am so guilty. Such mom-guilt...in all fairness, it is fun for me to watch him interact and I guess also to make sure he is ok. I know, I know.. cut the strings..
Yogurt tubes... Matthew loves these, I love them and have sent them on days the children bring in their lunches. If they make a mess consider it a payback for all the glitter and pasta art. ;)
Alicia (Lisha on BBCDO)
Dear Jen: Love your blog and your deep insight. I must be living in a new generation. Let me tell you about my Mom. We could always depend on her to be at school to pick us up. I cannot ever remember what she was wearing, but I do remember she always met us with an attitude that we knew she was glad to see us and a smile. It is absurd to think a child would care what you have on--who is thinking up all this garbage. Would be different were you meeting an adult. Children and adults do not (sadly) share the same values as to what is important. They see your heart--adults look at the outside. Sad. I agree with you--that is absurd and rediculous. Just ask a child. Love You, Aunti
ReplyDeleteElaine - I'm feeling great for the most part, just getting really nervous!
ReplyDeleteLisha - good idea, perhaps I need something to spritz with in the car! Thanks so much for reading the blog.
Aunti (is that you, Kay?) - I agree. I am not perfect, so what? My favorite thing about grandma is how she accepts all of us even though we are all far from perfect. Children have an amazing ability to do the same - accept and love us despite our imperfections.