Dear Son,
I am typing this letter while I watch you splashing in the pool with your big brother on one of the last lazy afternoons of summer. Your first day of kindergarten at a new school is just around the corner. Deep breath. It seems like you came into my life just a week ago and like your first day of preschool was yesterday. Now it’s time for kindergarten. My little toddler is turning into a big boy right before my eyes. I just swallowed the lump in my throat to keep from crying.
There’s so much I want to tell you about what it’ll be like at a new school and how to navigate your first day. I know that all of these new people and activities can seem a bit scary, but before you know it, everything will be familiar and comfortable. As you walk through the door of your new school, try to remember my ten wishes for you.
1. Just keep smiling
Walking into that new classroom filled with unfamiliar faces might seem scary. I promise you, though—everyone else is feeling the same way as you. Your infectious smile and little giggles will give you and others around you the confidence you need to get through those first few days and weeks.
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2. Always be kind
It doesn’t matter how many or how few friends you have—what matters most is how you treat everyone around you.
3. Don’t be afraid of differences
Not all of your classmates will be just like you, but different is good! Ask them questions and learn why they like what they like. You are bound to learn something new.
4. Listen
This is one of the hardest things to learn to do. Mommy is still learning it today. Listen to your teacher. Listen to your friends when they speak. Great listeners change the world.
5. Speak up and raise your hand when you can
Your teacher is so excited to meet you too. She wants to get to know you, so don’t be afraid to answer her questions and tell her all about you.
6. Don’t forget to ask for help if you need it
That’s what your teacher is there for. If you need help, it’s okay to ask. This is a good lesson to learn at a young age.
7. One good friend is all you need
You never know who that new best friend will be—introduce yourself and be friendly to the children in your class. The boy you talk to on the first day just may end up being your pal for life.
8. But if you see someone alone on the playground, ask them if they want to play
That might be you one day and you’ll hope your classmates will do the same thing.
9. No matter what happens at school, I will see you at the end of the day—every day.
I can’t wait to hear about all the fun you have and cheer from the sidelines as you learn and grow through the year. There will be great days and there will be not-so-great ones, but I’m always here to listen and hug you.
10. Believe in yourself
I do—I am your biggest fan.
I hope you remember my ten wishes as you make your way through your first day of kindergarten. I love you more than I can possibly explain—and I know you’re going to love school!
Love, Mom
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