Separation

Ryan and Kaitlyn are now in separate classes at daycare. Ryan has moved up to the next room but we haven't moved Katie yet because she is not walking 100% of the time. She walks at home constantly but when she not in a familiar environment I don't think she feels secure enough to toddle around. They only go to daycare 1-2x a month on a drop-in basis. When I drop them off, Ryan has his usual "Oh my g-d, is my mommy ever going to come back for me" melt down. I am told he gets over it within 5 minutes and proceeds to enjoy his day. Katie on the other hand, practically leaps out of my arms and seeks out her favorite toys to play with. Mommy who?

I am so fortunate to have a daycare facility at my job. Part of their routine includes taking "trips" within the nursing home in the big, red buggy to the lobby or to see the fish. They participate in some of our inter generational programs. We have fashion shows, costume parades, bowling and sing-a-longs just to name a few. When we have music programs or dog shows the children are part of the audience. I usually will peek in on Ryan and Katie 2x a day. At this stage, I try not to let Ryan see me to avoid any catastrophic crying. On occasion I will take Katie out to have lunch with me.


I was worried about how the "separation" would go. Would they realize the other wasn't there? Would they miss one another? As a parent, I want my children to grow up being best friends. I know it won't always be like that. I know there will be plenty of fighting, tattling, and silent treatments. Hey, I got 2 older siblings. Been there, done that.

Well, yesterday when I went to visit with Katie during lunch I asked how her day was going. The teachers told me it was going well. Then they told me all during breakfast Katie was looking around and saying, "I-in. I-in". That is Katie language for Ryan.


Hmm, maybe they will be best friends after all.