Two conversations (not including the ones silently going on in my own head at the time!) - insert sarcastic tones where appropriate…there will be several.
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Yesterday I was talking with a mom of a 4 (almost 5) year old boy. She LOVES his preschool class because he is learning SOOOO much – since January they’ve been focusing on one letter a day! They’re already up to G! She happily said “Last night he showed me his paper saying 'Look mom, /g/, /g/, /g/ goat starts with /g/!” (Here’s where you imagine my own little chatter going on in my brain - thankful that my lips didn’t let any of it out)
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Today I was talking with a mom of a just barely 4 year old boy who also LOVES his preschool. She loves it because they get to play, share, wait their turn, etc (which I do believe to be good - it’s just shooting too low). I asked if she was happy with the academics. To which she laughed outloud. “He’s only 4.” she responded. “What kind of academics are you expecting?” So, I changed my question and said “Well, what types of things is he learning?” Her response - “I don’t know, I haven’t had the chance to volunteer yet. But really, he knows his letters and numbers already. What more does he need?” (Knowing I would already be the topic for jokes in her circles for asking this question in the first place, I kept my mouth shut again.)
Anyway, all this just to say, I’m thankful - so thankful - for like minded folks like yourselves who accept and embrace the potential of what early learning can do for our children. Big old Valentines hugs to you! I wish I could pack you all up and have you over for tea!