Yesterday, after weeks of progressively worse and worse drop-offs, countless strategies from me, and lots of communication with her teacher, I half-jokingly suggested to June that we try not to cry at drop-off. I told her it was ok to be sad and to get extra hugs and kisses, but let's try to be brave. I got a very non-committal "OK" in response. I did not expect a miracle.
We arrived at school and hung out on the playground. When the bell rang, she held hands with her friend and they walked to the entrance together, barely acknowledging that I was behind them. After lining up, she ran back to give me a hug. (Other parents who had witnessed her sadness and anxieties were giving me looks like they also couldn't believe it! I was incredulous.) She did turn around about a dozen times to say "bye mom!" as she waited in line, but she was smiling and happy every time. She walked in on her own and never looked back once she went through the doors.
After school, she was so proud to tell me how brave she had been in the morning. And then (then!) asked if we could do it that way all week! HELL YES WE CAN!
Luckily today went just as well. I don't know if it was just the right time or if maybe she needed the suggestion that brave was an option...but either way, I'm so glad that our mornings are getting more joyous again.
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