Owen,
I did not see this happy face today when I dropped you off at preschool. There were some clues it was going to be rough--you didn't get to bed until after 8:30 last night, you woke up screaming at 5:00 which led to a screaming tantrum from Emma, and we let you sleep until about 7:15, only giving you half an hour before we had to leave.
When I pulled into the parking lot, you said, "Mommy, can I go home now?" I figured it would be bad.
And it was. You clung to the railings. Pulled on my arm trying to drag me into the bus lane. Thrashed and kicked when your teacher picked you up to try to calm you. Cried. Screamed. Waved goodbye to me as you cried and screamed. As I pulled out, I saw Jake and Emma's bus come in. I thought that might cheer you up, seeing them walk in the hall. But no--you were still crying and screaming as Mrs. Moglia tried to calm you down.
When I picked you up, you were the second one called. You walked out, gave me a hug, and then started pulling me toward the car. "Did you say goodbye to your teachers?" I asked.
"I don't know," you said in that funny breathy way you have as you made your way to the car. Inside, I looked inside your bag and pulled out a picture than you had crumpled and shoved into the back. It was a family picture. You drew me, Ron the fish, and Jake. On the top, your teacher had written a note--he wants to draw more at home. Of course you didn't, and I had to wonder if you cooperated or were sullen? Your picture was mostly scribbles and blobs, and I wonder if you even tried or just didn't want to make an effort.
So it was a rough day. I told you to use your words and tell me why you were upset so I could help you, and you chose to kick my seat repeatedly. You had a playdate with Cayden and Logan, and you ended up screaming at them to leave.
I hope it was that you were tired today. While you don't nessarily love preschool, you've been pretty happy at drop off up until now. Maybe it's just a one time thing. We'll see. I'm trying to be optimistic, but I admit that I'm worried about how you'll do in school. You are so bright and social and engaging at home and with your friends . . . but at school, you seem to be a different Owen.
Hopefully it was just one day.
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