This time last year, I was getting ready to send my youngest to PreK. 
To the world, I was as cool as a cucumber. I told everyone how relieved I was to have three children in the same school for one year.
I told people that, yes, she was young (June birthday) but she was totally ready.
I agreed, yes, the school is huge but she will be fine. She’s spunky.
Inside, I was panicked. This is my baby. The last of all of my babies. The littlest one.
I didn’t want to let her go to PreK. I didn’t want to let her go anywhere. I will talk a good game of how great it is to get the kids into school, and mean most of it. I love my silent home so that I can work and clean and sit in peace. I love watching them grow and change and learn.
But this last child hurt.
What did I do to help my own hurt?
First of all, I stopped pretending that I was okay with all of it. I knew deep down she was ready, but I still cried to my husband. I worried to my close friends who reassured me. I talked to other moms who reassured me that their children had had wonderful years and that my little one was going to love it. I allowed support in.
Secondly, I didn’t talk to people who would worry along with me. I avoided people who would feed my anxiety. I was anxious enough, I didn’t need anyone else building my straw house of fear. I used to think that this kind of avoidance was unhealthy; I now view it as a profoundly healthy move (especially if you are clear on your goals).
Thirdly, I shared that I was a bit of a nervous wreck with the teacher, and she could not have been kinder. When the tears were streaming down my face behind my sunglasses, she smiled and gave me a hug. She let me know that my little one was happy and adjusting and doing just fine. I still cried, but I could move forward with my day knowing that my baby was okay.
Now I am sending my biggest baby to sixth grade. How? When? What?
I am feeling weepy again, but when I watch her move through the world…her elegance, her confidence, her grace…I know that she’s ready. I know she lifting off into that world, and I am genuinely happy for her.
My wish for you this school year is to be open enough to weep as we watch our little ones grow, and wise enough to surround yourself with loving support to enjoy the transition, too.
If you are feeling like YOU need some support this fall, sign up for my Special Three Sesh. $580. (My regular SIX Session package is over $1000.00, so this may be a great way to try some parent coaching.)
This offer expires on October 31st 2015, so just go ahead and
If you are interested in learning more about this or about other coaching packages, . I would be happy to chat with you for 20 minutes!