First Day Jitters

Today, Eddie started first grade! After having two days of no school because of the lack of electricity from the hurricane, they finally opened today.

There were tears from Eddie this morning over his bowl of Oatmeal Squares. Peirce and I both did the pep talk about how it was okay to be scared. We felt this way as kids too. His teacher was nervous today too. Other kids feel this way. It really is hard to give a pep talk when your own heart is ripped into a thousand pieces hearing the fear of your child.

But, thankfully, this pep talk somehow worked and Eddie rallied to head out the door. This year brings about tie shoes and a belt. Major fashion issues for a little kid if you ask me. Then again, I think all pants should be made with elastic waistbands for grownups and kids alike. He gave us a great smile as we headed to the car.

Upon pickup, Eddie was in a good mood. We played around the school yard for a bit with some friends and then headed home. He raced to get his uniform off and raced into the bathroom. I then learned (upon listening to what was going on in the bathroom) that he had not gone potty ALL DAY at school!!! I can't even imagine! He was too fearful about dealing with his belt and he knew he couldn't hook it by himself. The poor kid. I told him we would practice tonight.

To his credit, the belt was very stiff. And little fingers that are new at this belt thing definitely would have struggled. We loosened it up tonight and now he feels like a pro.

Over the summer, Eddie completed a workbook and one of the terms he had to learn was "confidence." We talked about what that meant and listed the things he has learned to do just this spring and summer. And it is quite neat. Our timid boy is growing up.

1. ride a two wheeled bike

2. go under water

3. tie shoes

4. fasten a belt

5. play baseball

6. read chapter books

Hopefully, tomorrow will bring a day with a potty break! Keep learning Eddie!