Today was Mia's first day of school in all-day K4.
I didn't have many expectations for the day, but I expected the morning to be rough, as everyone was supposed to get up earlier than usual. Then I pictured Nate and I walking Mia (4) and Anika (11 months) to school, meeting the teacher, saying hello and introducing ourselves. Then I'd leave to bring Anika to daycare and get myself to work—on time.
Every experienced parent of a school-age child is probably giggling at my novice right now.
After a hurried morning, we took the classic "first day" pictures and ended up driving to school (3 blocks) because we were running so late. I briefly met teacher, but there was little time for hellos as she shuffled 25 4-year-olds and their parents into the room, gave us a folder of paperwork and snapped our pictures for Mia's file.
Before I left for work with a baby in desperate need of a diaper change on the go, I gave the teacher our paperwork and a "good luck" as she calmly took control of the madhouse that was forming.
I've always had tremendous respect for all educators out there but just realized today what a true fiasco the first day of school can be. I chuckled at myself for assuming there would be ample time for introduction and long chat. There will be time for that in the near future, I'm sure.
Right now, I'll just concern myself with getting everyone to daycare, school and work on time.