Suzanne's Mom's Blog

One of my grandchildren attends a small preschool with a teacher who has a big focus on how people treat each other, not just the usual numbers and letters and stories. She writes quite individualistic reports each week to the families. Here is how one such report began. I have changed the names.

“Paula’s first day of school!! I’m so happy Renzo and Paula shared a special day together for her first experience at the school. Renzo was very nurturing with her, always offering help when she needed it, and teaching her how the day goes. We began our day together by coloring with crayons and painting with watercolors … we painted flowers and leaves. Paula colored with purple, she said, ‘purple,’ very quietly. Renzo whispered to me, very excitedly, ‘She’s sayin’ purple!’ Then while using markers, Paula was having trouble opening her marker, Renzo noticed and opened it for her, Renzo said, ‘That was fun. I can help you!!’ Paula smiled big.

“Then Renzo wanted to introduce Paula to our ‘water break’ routine … someone says, ‘water break,’ then everyone stops what they’re doing and sips water together and sighs a refreshing relief and continues making whatever we were making before. So, Renzo yells, ‘water break!!’ He scoops up his water and drinks, I drink too, trying to explain to Paula what’s going on, inviting her to join in. Renzo then notices, ‘She didn’t take a water break.’ I explained to Renzo that she probably needed to see a ‘water break’ before giving it a try. Later in the day, Renzo announced another water break … this time, Paula reached for her water and we all took a big sip and sighed together. Renzo was absolutely delighted. I’m very proud of Renzo for taking it upon himself to teach this little tradition to Paula, making sure she’s included. I’m very proud of Paula for observing the little ritual and understanding it so quickly, then giving it a try!”

For more on the school, e-mail me at suzannesmom@lunaandstella.com.