Beautiful

Butterfly's second day at school came with some challenges. Teacher called Partner to come back to the school to help Butterfly for the remainder of the day. Teacher said Butterfly was having some communication breakdowns. Partner called me very upset- although we knew that this would happen, the stress of getting "the call" proved overwhelming for Partner. 

When she arrived at the Charter, Teacher and Butterfly explained what had happened. Butterfly was swinging the ties on her dress at some of the other children. Teacher asked her to please stop and when she wouldn't, gently removed Butterfly from the classroom herself. Butterfly started swinging the ties at Teacher. 

Teacher had the school call Partner. Teacher stayed with Butterfly to help her work through it and then the roving "Communication Specialist" who goes from classroom to classroom to help when thing arise, came and helped Butterfly reintegrate into the classroom when she was ready.

When Teacher spoke with Partner, she told her that she wanted to Butterfly to come to the place where she realizes that calling "mommy" is not a punishment. Instead, it is  a support. Wow. What a difference.   We really liked how the Teacher and Communication Specialist handled all of it. Butterfly had lots of support and it was handled quickly. What a relief.

Teacher told us that she noticed Butterfly struggle at the same time on Monday. That this transition time seemed particularly challenging. I think- how insightful and observant of Teacher.  Teacher said Partner had to spend the whole day at school with Butterfly on Wednesday and preferably the remainder of the week. Brother is welcome to come too. 

When Partner told Butterfly her consequence was not being able to ride her scooter later that day, Teacher gently pulled Partner aside. She said I really don't agree with consequences. She suggested that Partner and I attend the K/1/2 meeting on Wednesday evening with childcare provided. They talk about the curriculum and also practice and talk about Non Violent Communication. WE found out later it is actually required for all parents...which we think is great.

Wednesday, Butterfly had a spectacular day at school with Partner. She got to make clay animals in the outdoor classroom. She got to hold the pet iguana. She got  to touch the stick bugs. She learned how to make a volcano from vinegar and baking soda. When a kid found a spider, the teacher stopped the whole class and gave everyone magnifying glasses to check out the spider with. 

Partner got to go the eveing K/1/2 meeting- I had to work- and took the kids with her. Apparently, I have to attend from now on- it is kind of like I am back in school too. They had a great time and Partner came home with an exercise book in non violent communication, a reading list and instructions for us to read, read, read. I stayed up late last night reading the first book. I love the thought process behind the non violent communication movement. I think we have lots to learn- it is an entirely different way to parent.

When I got home last night, Butterfly ran and gave me a hug. She said thank you for my new school. It was the first time I have seen her excited about school- ever. She was a blur of words and hands and laughter as she talked about her day. It was beautiful.