I’m not going to lie to you. Even though it’s a year away, I’m dreading the day I have to send my son off to kindergarten.
At first, I was excited about the idea of not writing the large check to Riley’s day care center each month. That is, until I realized that money will need to go to before- and after-school care. Then I found out that the center won’t provide transportation to the school my son will be attending because the district eliminated the busing to cut expenses. Boy, will the Afterschool and Enrichment Directory on page 31 detailing before and afterschool programs come in handy for me.
While I’m fretting over the details of transportation and if my son will adjust to a new schedule as a kindergartener, he’s already excited about the eventual day he gets to ride on the big yellow bus (he already knows he wants a window seat) and step into “big boy school.”
As a parent of school-age children, you can probably identify with my plight. I find myself full of worry at the prospect of what could go wrong, but my child is excited about all the possibilities this new adventure brings. After all, he doesn’t even know what to worry about.
After reading the story on page 26, though, I’m a bit comforted, and maybe you will be, too. We read every night and discuss the stories. And Riley has been attending a preschool for the past couple of years, getting him used to learning in a structured setting a little bit at a time. If you’re looking for ideas on how to prep your kindergartener, or soon-to-be high schooler, this story is sure to offer tips that may put you at ease.
If you’re the parent of a tween or teen, your child may not be so excited to get back to the books, but I bet they can’t wait to spend your money by going back-to-school shopping. Not up on the latest trends? Need some tips on how to make your trip to the mall as pain-free as possible? Want to save a buck? Check out our “ages and stages” reports starting on page 16 for all you need to know.
For those who are thinking about keeping their kids home and acting as both parent and teacher, home schooling may be the way to go. On page 24, you can read about all the benefits local parents say home schooling has to offer.
No matter how old your children are, whether you send them to public school or private school, the start of school and their absence is sure to make your heart grow fonder. When they get off that bus – give them an extra big squeeze when you see them.
Best,
Nikki
Editor | nikkim@journalpub.com