Livi's First Days of School

first day at Waldorf

Yes, that would be multiple first days of school! Since things were going so smoothly for us here, and we weren't completely overwhelmed with all of the transitions, we decided to mix it up and send Livi to a new school. We found out on Livi's first day at the Waldorf School, that there was a spot open at a French immersion charter school. We couldn't resist the opportunity so her first day of school at Waldorf became her last, and we got ready for her second first day of school.

There were a number of things we considered when deciding to move her to the French school. We had no doubt that she would have a wonderful experience at Waldorf, but we honestly couldn't have afforded to send both kids there the whole time we were living here. Our plan was to have Livi there for pre-K, and then try our luck at the charter school lottery next year. Unfortunately, there really aren't that many good public school options and this was making us very nervous...This opportunity fell into our lap and here we are!

We had one day in between her 2 first days, and I took Livi for a pony ride in Audubon Park at a stable that will be right near our house! She loved it and can't wait to go back for more.

First day at French school,
her wonderfully supportive big brother at her side

And then it was time for her second first day! Biggest obstacle? Trying to convince her to wear the uniform.... Our fashionista cried for a minute the first morning when she put it on, but we cut out the tag that was itching her and she moved on. She was a trooper at drop-off, waved goodbye to us and even said "au revoir!" I was a bundle of nerves all day, wondering if she was doing OK or completely overwhelmed. At pick-up she was smiling, and her teacher said she was interested, involved, and happy. She even took a nap! Livi did say that some of the kids weren't nice, but I'm not sure what to make of that. On her second day she said a few kids were nice so we're making progress...and the French piece doesn't seem to be an issue! I have to remind myself that she's only 4... When Oscar was 4, I was practically dragging him out of the door every morning and tears were shed almost every day. Livi's sweet kisses and smiles at drop off are a good sign that things are going well, but I'll breathe easier when she starts talking about friends!

after her second day of school