Edmund: Our Newest Graduate

Edmund with Fellow Graduates

Yesterday marked Edmund's last day at the infant/toddler site. He'll be going to our preschool site across town starting next Friday. I feel like I should be a wreck, so perhaps the fact he'll no longer be with me hasn't hit yet. I truly wish both schools were combined so I could be near Edmund. But am I upset I won't be his teacher anymore? In truth, not really, though I'm so glad I was able to be with him during his first three years. I won't be in control of his day to day happenings anymore, and that makes me a bit apprehensive. However, as much as I like control, it's probably a good thing I'll have to learn to let go. Also it has gotten to the point where Edmund screams and pounds on the door when I go in to get something at school. He won't use the potty for anyone but me at school, and refuses to pull up his own pants. It may be hard at first, but eventually he'll do this for other teachers when he knows I'm not around. I help other kids achieve independence all the time away from mom and dad, so I'm looking forward to this aspect of our time apart. I'm also thinking how much sweeter our afternoon reunions will be. All in all I think this milestone will be good for both of us.

Because yesterday was the last day at the infant/toddler site for our entire class, Jennifer and I decided to plan something special for the kids. In the past teachers have done mini graduations, but that's really for the parents. And come on, how many two and three year olds do you know who want to sit still to receive a piece of paper? I've written before about one of Edmund's favorite places, Locopops. It's a local business that sells popsicles made from local ingredients, and is conveniently (or sometimes inconveniently) located within walking distance of my school. I've gotten to know one of the employees, Mr. Kevin, a little since we frequent so often and talked to him about having our graduation party there. Unfortunately we learned Locopops doesn't open until noon, nap time, so we thought Locopops was out. However, Jennifer and I took a chance and emailed the owner, and she said "sure she'd open up for our graduation party." This is one of the perks of working with a local business. Yesterday we were thrilled to see that Mr. Kevin was our "host" for the party, as he's gotten to know several of the other children too. Apparently, we're not the only family who craves cold popsicles after school.

The graduation was perfect. Almost all of the parents were able to come out and enjoy a popsicle on a sweltering day. Steven even caught up with us post-call to enjoy a tasty treat. Jennifer and I did go ahead and give out "certificates of excellence", to appease the parents. Edmund got an award for most witty sense of humor, and quickly handed his certificate back to me. He was all about the popsicles. After many photo opportunities, and wiping the splattered popsicle juice off the floor, we headed back to school. It was truly a fun end to a great year.