It is THAT moment.
The moment your little one starts Big School.
It is bittersweet, because although you are excited for them, it is the symbolic first step of your child's journey into independence.
Many of us will shed tears over the coming days - happy tears, sad tears, tears of nostalgia and worry and tears for ourselves - for our own loss - marking the end of their babyhood.
We came across this beautiful poem from mummy blogger, Emma Robinson on her blog, Motherhood for Slackers and we just had to share it. Tissues at the ready, mamas.
Dear Teacher
I know you're rather busy
First day back, there's just no time
A whole new class of little ones
And this one here is mine
I'm sure you have things covered
And have done this lots before
But my boy is very little
He hasn't long turned four
In his uniform this morning
He looked so tall and steady
But now beside your great big school
I’m not quite sure he’s ready
Do you help them eat their lunch?
Are you quick to soothe their fears?
And if he falls and hurts his knee
Will someone dry his tears?
And what if no-one plays with him?
What if someone’s mean?
What if two kids have a fight
And he’s caught in between?
You’re right, I have to leave now
It’s time for him to go
I’m sure he’ll learn so much from you
Things that I don’t know
Yes, I’m sure they settle quickly
That he’s fine now without me
I know he has to go to school
It’s just so fast, you see
It seems like just a blink ago
I first held him in my arms
It’s been my job to love, to teach
To keep him safe from harm
So, when I wave goodbye in a moment
And he turns to walk inside
Forgive me if I crumple
Into tears of loss and pride
I know as I give him one more kiss
And watch him walk away,
That he’ll never again be wholly mine
As he was before today.
Share with anyone who might appreciate it this week.
Good luck, mamas x
