back-to-school night

On Wednesday night Ryan and I attended Back-to-School night at Ben's school.  The night began in the JCC theater where all the teachers were introduced and the school's mission and latest educational philosophies were shared.  It was refreshing to me how open and welcoming they were to families of non-Jewish faiths and also how their Jewish journey for the children is focused on questioning everything while respecting our environment and treating others with love.  Question everything?
Religious debate is not for this blog- but wow!

After a little speech from the parent involvement committee, we were directed to the classrooms for discussions and introductions.  Ben's teachers have a whole other set of students on M/W/F but the teachers had a great activity for separating the parents so we could chat with parents in our own children's classes.  We all painted fall scenes on plexiglass to be hung in the big windows that overlook the garden.  The teachers said that between the big trees and nesting swallows, the kiddos spend a lot of time focused on what it going on outside.

There was not a lot of individual time with the teachers, but Ben's teacher Ms. Danae stated that Ben just makes them laugh and brightens their days.  She also said he is quite mischievous and tries to repeatedly test them and climb on things.  She said that when they "redirect" (their philosophy frowns on "no,") him, he tilts his head and smiles in his little impossible-to-resist flirt.  She said she has already had to walk away from him and hide her laugh.  I told her that we welcomed a more firm "redirection" where necessary and that he had been attempting manipulation for quite a while.  

Other parents stated that they looked forward to seeing Ben's big smile and a kiddo that wasn't crying.  I will say though that Thursday brought lots of tears for Ben both at drop-off and pick-up.  I think a pending bout of sniffles, not enough sleep, and a babysitter the night before all contributed.
Two other parents with very little newborns commented on how much Ben loves their babies and how gentle and sweet he is to them. :) I also told them to feel free and ask him to keep his kissies to himself.  They both said they let him "do his thing" as an example to the siblings for gentleness.

Although there are lots of different families and situations, a couple of chats made me once again overwhelmingly thankful for the time I get to spend with Ben.  Several families in the room have two working parents and are working to balance nannies and other day care so their children can be at the JCC for these few hours a week.  I do not take for granted the blessing it is to stay home with Ben right now.

Our next big school night is conferences in November.  I am impressed with the communication of the teachers so far and look forward to working together on our goals for Ben until then.