I thought we were ready when my oldest went to preschool for the first time. Not only was he a cheerful, laid-back kid who liked making new friends at playgrounds, but we had done the Mommy & Me classes and he even had fun at the preschool open house. We were set, right? Nope. Thirty minutes into the class I went back to his room to take a peek before I left – and there is my little guy, tears streaming, looking terrified and refusing to budge from his “circle time” spot. All the other kids are having a great time playing instruments in a parade, my guy normally loves this stuff. What went wrong? What did I forget to prepare him for? Nothing. He was learning to let go of ME.

Yes, it’s hard on you both – that first class alone always is. There’s a reason so many moms will give you that understanding smile (when you’re thinking “Why am I doing this to my child?”). We’ve all had to go through it. I don’t know how to make it easier, except to make sure you’re comfortable with their teacher.

Not to worry, by the third week my son was just fine. You never would have guessed we had such a tough start. Fast forward 3 years and we’re on to child #2. I think we’re ready again. This time, we’ve not only done the Mommy & Me class, but my guy is now starting the Big Boy (a.k.a. No Mommy) gymnastics class. You guessed it, he’s in tears because I’m on the sideline. It’s hard, but I know what to expect now. And by the fifth class, there’s not a tear and I’m in the stands talking with another flustered mom (who’s just moved her son into the Big Boy class) telling her “Hey, don’t feel embarrassed. I’ve just gone through the same thing.” OK, we’ve made it through that initial separation period, now Sunday School by himself and….. no problem! Whooppee!! I think we may actually get through the start of preschool this week without tears – not counting mine, of course!