Date: 29 Sep,'11 . Avani's 16+ months old.
Today is Avani's first day to school. We decided to give her an exposure of
spending time out of home with other kids. Until now Avani always use to be at
home with me, her momma. She was under my care all day long. Sending her to
school was one of the big decisions that we took. It was hard initially to
decide as being a parent the possession of the child dominated any thought of
separation.
Having visited the school twice before and satisying myself with the
safety, hygiene and care for the child, I decided to drop her to school today.
She was enrolled in the Daycare group for 2 hours per day. The morning was a
busy one, from Avani freshing herself to giving her a timely bath, followed by
breakfast and packing for the school. There were many new thoughts that kept
popping up, ranging from what should be the tiffin I should prepare for her to
keeping the lunch ready for her when she arrives home. The busy hours kept me
on my toes.
Finally I was at school, and the time had come when I had to leave my sweet
heart and wave goodbye. This was a really painstaking period. I decided to be
around the campus for the next 2 hours while Avani was in school so that I
would be available as and when needed. The teachers assured me not to get
anxious and leave for home but the mother inside me would not listen!
Finally, I resorted to a nearby cafe and decided to wait. The hour and a
half that I spent in the cafe was mixed with several feelings. I had a quiet
place all by myself to read or write. But every now and then my heart use to
ache, having parted with my Princess! I called the teacher twice in this time
span to know Avani's whereabouts and learnt that "All was Well".
At last the time had come for me to get Avani. My heart flooded with
happiness when I saw her engrossed playing merrily with the kids. Indeed, Avani
had a great time at school where she cried in fun and laughed excitedly with
her peers. She had a great exposure and enjoyed the company of other toddlers.
I prayed silently thanking God for always being around and protecting our baby.
