Courageous Kids

Image courtesy of melinda365 photography

 

We welcomed a new student to school today, on the eleventh day of school.

A kindergartener, who walked straight down the big front steps, into the two story building toward his classroom.  How he knew where he was headed I’m not sure.  He was way ahead of his momma and me.

In his uniform shorts and polo shirt, he strode across campus ready for the day.

“He’s not shy at all,” mom remarked as we followed along behind him.

His backpack looked empty. But he gave an air of confidence wearing it.  Thomas the Train I believe.  It is important to wear a backpack to school.  One simply must.

Suddenly his steps slowed.  We caught up to him. Turning his five-year-old body toward his mom, he folded in on her legs. And started to cry.

“I don’t want to stay at this school.”

“Come on, sweetheart, just take a look.”

Mom encouraged. I encouraged. We coaxed. He didn’t budge.

Mom took him outside the classroom and sat with him on the steps.  Do you want to go in and sit with him?” I asked.

“Oh no. He’ll be fine.” she replied. “Goodbye, honey. See you after school.” mom said as she kissed her son on top of his head and then headed down the hallway.

He continued to cry, but he did not run. He did not give chase.

Soon, he followed the staff member we lovingly call the “kindergarten whisperer” out to see the new playground and into his new class.

After recess I stopped by and he smiled a huge eye sparkling smile right up at me as he said, “I like this school.”

I do too, honey. And I’m so very glad you’ve come.

 

 

 

 

 

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