Benjamin's First Day of School

Well, it is official. As of yesterday, Benjamin is officially IN SCHOOL. Daddy and I went back and forth on the idea of getting him in a program this year and had pretty much decided not to do it - feeling very guilty because he was pretty vocal about his interest in going to Noah's school. But at the last minute (actually, a week after school started) we changed our minds and were able to get him in. See, most of my day is spent refereeing my sons. To say it is exhausting is an understatement. (If anyone has ANY suggestions on how to work with this issue aside from separation, I am all ears...) School days are a treat around here because with the boys separated everyone is happier and less stressful. However, it occurred to me that Noah deserved to be home for one of those 'quieter' days as well. So, now Tuesdays are his day home with Mommy and Abby where we get to do what he wants to do and he doesn't haave to be in trouble all day for fighting with his brother. AND, Benjamin gets to spend a day at school. It is a win-win.

So, on his first day daddy met us at school to walk him in. As we were getting out of the car he asked about Noah's back pack. I said he didn't need it because he wasn't staying. There was some confusion about this, but he got over it quickly. As he jumped out of the car he said, "I won't lose you, Mommy, while I am at school." (Isn't he thoughtful?) Because he is at "Noah' school" he had no apprehension at all. He marched right in there and said hi to all the office staff then went to his classroom. He went right in and started playing with the toys. The teachers were very impressed with his level of comfort. (Really we knew he was not going to have any problem with going to school. I was just kind of hoping he would shed just a little tear. Just ONE tear. Just to let me know that he would miss spending his entire day with me. We got nothing.) He was kind enough to wave and smile as we walked out - more than some other sons do when they go to school.

Now, Benjamin's day could last until 2:30 but that would mean he would have rested for an hour at school and missed out on his 2-3 hour nap at home AND he would be home and awake while Noah and Abby were sleeping, so I am opting to pick him up early. I kind of feel guilty about this because he looks so cute lying on his little cot with all his friends when I get there to pick him up. (He also tells me that resting with his friends is his favorite part of the day. I am fairly certain this is because it is the last thing he does each day.) He told me that he ate lunch next to Nathan and he eats chocolate sandwiches. I think I know who Benjamin's best friend is going to be... And while we might not be ready for Benjamin to be old enough to 'go to school' we really are grateful that he has made the transition so easily. Happy schooling, Benjamin!