It's so weird to think that Sammy is FIVE and in Kindergarten. I just can't seem to believe it. From all reports, she is doing very well adjusting to the all-day schedule. She is happy and transitions well (which, luckily, has always been the case).
Just recently I had a phone conversation with her teacher, who I absolutely love, and she informed me that Samantha is starting to mimic more and more. Everyday she reads them the same book. Mrs. Boyer said that Sammy gets excited when she pulls out the book. And then, there are a few parts where a bus driver (in the book) yells, 'NO.' Well, guess who does it too? SAMMY. That's right. Sammy enthusiastically yells out "NO" when they get to that part in the book. And finally, at the very end, the bus driver says "YES" and Sammy repeats "YEAH" every time. Now, that just about made my heart melt. It may seem like a little thing, but it's a big 'ole deal to me. As a side note: I'm so happy we have Laura for a teacher. I knew they were hiring a new teacher. At our last IEP, the principal told me they weren't sure who the new teacher would be, but she was hoping for one that 3 other schools wanted. Well, we got her! She has 30 years experience, knows about the program we're doing at home with Sammy, and is all-around fantastic. She knows her stuff...is 'old school' good. What do I mean by that? She has a ton of experience, believes in what she does, and as new stuff comes out, she's all about adjusting and adding it to her classroom. It's all for the benefit of her kids. I love her. I made it very clear that I wanted Sammy to stay at her school, and I'm so glad it worked out that way (she could have been moved to another school).
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Callie waiting with Samantha for the bus. |
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All smiles. |
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It should be easier to get a good picture. Oh well. At least there aren't any tears, right? |
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Here comes our door-to-door service! We LOVE our bus driver this year. Dee is incredible. She's already become a friend and I'm sure she'll be added to our family by the end of the year. I love love love this woman. It's also really nice that Sammy gets picked up last this year. Her bus time is only 1/2 hour later, but it makes a huge difference for me in the morning. Less rushing, more enjoying. |
I just want to say that I really admire you. I read this blog and begin to shred tears. My daughter also has microcephaly and will be transitioning from an early intervention program to preschool next month.
ReplyDeleteI always try to be strong but the truth is I'm very scared of her starting school with so many severe developmental delays. Sometimes I feel like I just want to shelter her from the world! I love my daughter to pieces and I know deep down that school is whats best for her.
I want to thank you for this blog. You have really inspired me.
P.S. Sammy is so beautiful with the most prettiest blue eyes and blonde hair.
I love her :)