Noah - The End Of His First Year At School

Time flies when you're having fun, and when you have children. I suppose both of which go hand in hand. That's something that all parents grasp from the get-go, how fast the time seems to pass you by. That said, I thought that time would slow down a little when they get little older, but if anything it's going even faster.

Noah's first year at school, his Reception year has flown by in the blink of an eye. It's scary how fast it's gone. I was very emotional on his admission day when he got his first choice of school, on the eve of his first day at school, starting school and I'm just as much of a wreck now that he's finished his first year at school, Reception class. It's such a huge milestone in his life, and it's now over just like that.

Noah was very anxious about starting school, which is something he's struggled with since he was a baby. He's always felt anxiety when it comes to new places and being away from me. He knew that most of his friends from nursery were moving over to the same school with him, but he still struggled with the transition. For the first few weeks, he would cling to me, sometimes he would cry but he overcame it after some time, a lot faster than he did with his nursery transition.

As weeks and months went by I watched Noah blossom before my very eyes, in many different ways. Academically, he's at the levels that he should be, which for a boy who never sits still, who daydreams away into Noah-land, is really impressive. In the space of one year at school, he's learned to read, write, do basic maths, and much more. He's grown so much in himself, in his self-esteem and confidence. He's worked hard and has won a few awards over the year, the role model cup and medal, he's had lunchtime awards and star of the week.

His end of year report really made me smile because it was evident that they got to know him well. They noted how much of a people person he is, how he always strives to make new friendships and has many friends in class. They said that he's well mannered, kind and a joy to be around, which I think is something that all parents want to hear.

He'll be starting year 1 in a couple of weeks, but for now, here's to the summer holidays and all the adventures we have in store.

On The Eve Of Your First Day At School

Well, Noah. I can't quite believe I'm writing this, but you start school tomorrow! It's true when they say that the days are long, but the years are short. I remember when you were born, thinking that we had such a long time together before I had to "send you off to school" but wow, the years have flown by! 

As fast as these four and a half years have been, we've packed so much into them and have taken full advantage of having you at home, or in nursery. You've been abroad three times, once to mainland Spain, twice to Majorca. You've been to Butlins and Bluestone, Forest Holidays and Center Parcs. You've been to London, to Wales, to the Lake District, to Blackpool, and more.

It's a very surreal feeling for me as your mother, knowing what is ahead of you and although we've had six weeks to come to terms with the new chapter in your childhood, it still doesn't feel real. I don't think it will until you are in your uniform and I'm walking you to school tomorrow afternoon. 

Talking about the six week holidays, I've been preparing you for school as much as I can during your time off, and with the help of the PJ Masks, no less! A couple of weeks ago we were sent a big bundle of goodies, to help you feel prepared and confident enough for your big day. I've written about a couple of the products on my social media pages (Instagram, Facebook and Twitter) so make sure to check them out if you'd like to learn more about them and have a nosey at what we received. The PJ Masks First Writing Book, in particular, has been a godsend, with it being wipeable it's given you a new found confidence when it comes to writing.

Noah, you are a proper little chap now, with endless energy, charisma and personality. You're a wonderful son and an amazing big brother. I'm so proud of the little boy that you've become. You're exactly how I envisioned you to be, a little carbon copy of your Daddy. What more could I ask for?

So, that leaves me to sign off for the night. You're tucked up in bed, dreaming away, ready for the next stage in your life. Please ignore the wobble in my lip, and the tears in my eyes tomorrow, but, if you have those too, that's okay. Remember that even though you are starting school, you're still my baby and whenever your eyes well up, or your lip wobbles, I'll always be there for a kiss and a cuddle.