Wednesday, December 05, 2007

A Rough Transition

Well, after her great success the first day at her new school, things have gotten a bit choppy. She’s definitely realized now that Mommy is going to leave her there, and she’s not really cool with that anymore. So, the past two mornings there has been much crying and gnashing of teeth at drop off time. Yesterday I got a report that she was “moody” all day. I saw a bit of that this morning when she was happy as a clam reading a book and then stood up and started crying for no reason at all. I finally caved and let her have her binky before handing her off to her teacher. I’m utterly depressed about the whole thing and missing her old daycare terribly. In my mind, I know that this is the right place for her to be, and it’s a great opportunity for her to get into a private school. Unfortunately, that doesn’t make it any easier at drop off time. At this point, I’m trying to will both of us to just make it through the week.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

I don't think we ever expected this to be an eventless, smooth transition ... but the problem is the first day she did so well I think we falsely got our hopes up. As you said, ultimately this is the right move (both due to how the "system works" and the additional opportunities and education she will receive).

I give it a week, maybe two and she will adjust. If not now, sooner or later we were all going to have to face the reality of going to school and hardships of learning to make new adjustments. This is as good a time as any to start.

Now, for Mama, I wouldn't put the burden of this decision on your shoulders as if you have taken something away from her (the comfort of the previous care facility), instead you've provided more opportunities. We all know appreciate that A'lia took excellent care of her and knew her and all of her moods, and personalities. I'm sure with time the new teachers will grow just as familiar and fond of her. It's new for everyone, but maybe we should go in and communicate what we want Hailey to get out of this experience as well as afford them some key insights into her personality to catch them up to speed?

I think ultimately she'll do just fine (but granted I don't have to look her in the face as I walk out the door like you do). Would you like me to join you in the drop offs for a period of time?

I wish I could somehow snap my fingers and make this effortless, but the reality of it is, this is just the first of many transitions we will experience with her and there is no magic formula. If we know in our hearts that its the right decision, then we can overcome and adapt to anything.

love
lh

ann said...

That's got to break your heart. Keep in mind that she's at the age where she starts to realize that there are strangers around her and mom is a "constant."

Give it time - it will get better!

Love ya! -Ann

Alisa Hamilton said...

Just called the school, and they say that she's doing fine. The Director said that Hailey was smiling a lot in the afternoon. This could just be a case where I'm projecting her early morning mood on the rest of her day. That might not be accurate. We'll see what the report is when I pick her up today.

Anonymous said...

Hailey is going through a normal transition its hard and may last a couple of weeks but in the end she will get use to all the new teachers and students and she'll be just fine. I know how hard it is to leave her when she's crying but she probably stops as soon as you leave. Hang in there it will get better soon. Even though she's very advanced remember she's still just a baby.

Love, Mom

Anonymous said...

I can honestly say that I have scarcely seen a more secure, loved and well-adjusted child as little Hailey Marie Hamilton.

The speed bumps that jar us older folks are just that. We forget they exist in certain places. They aren't everywhere; most of the time we can go sailing along enjoying the ride. They do show up occasionally, and we generally don't enjoy being surprised, jolted or alarmed when they do pop up. However, it doesn't mean the wheels are falling off - you guys run a solid ride and you're on the right track. You've already given Hailey all the shock absorbers she needs for these little bumps.

love,
Nanna

Anonymous said...

Well whatever opportunities come along in that sweet little girl's life she has one major advantage, both of her parents are working together to act in her best interest. You guys are clearly being mindful of her feelings and each others' and that is such a healthy way for a family to function. We can't make everything in life perfect for our children, despite our best efforts. But when we love them as well as you guys love Hailey we give them the confidence and strength to face whatever new challenges come their way.