First day in pre-school 3-5y room, Union Childcare

Abi was apprehensive when she arrived in the morning. Mum had said that she already knew all the children and would enjoy the new activities but Abi wasn't listening. She said that she wanted to go to Blackfriars childcare instead. Abi stalled in the foyer and said that she didn't want to go in. Teacher Maryanne picked her up (Mum was carrying Pascale) and all walked in to put her bag into the new locker area. Abigail was pouting severely, Mum said "hope you don't look like that when they take your photo for the new locker nametag".

In the playground Teacher Yuki welcomed Abigail who shyly wrapped herself around mum's legs. Mum was briefed by Yuki on what kind of things she will be teaching in the group (tidying up after themselves, independence, verbal expression vs physical, other stuff) and was requested to bring Abi to Union before 10am (we have been tardy) to allow her time to settle before the children split up into home room groups for their work. Mum pointed out quietly to Abi as one of the children asked Yuki to intervene that Abi can go to the teachers for help like that girl had. Mum left Abi sitting next to Yuki who addressed the 3-5y group and briefed them on the day's work. Abi was not crying.

When it was pick-up time, Abi seemed to be very happy. Yuki noted for both parents to see the room journal where Abi featured with other children participating in the activity of planting carrot seeds. Yuki was pleasantly surprised that Abi had had a good day and was not disruptive. (Por Por noted to Priscilla that she should have said to Yuki that Abi was ready for that next level). That morning Abi had started to participate after a short observation period of 10mins sitting next to Yuki. Chris observed that she was arm-in-arm with the other Abbey for a period that day. Abi already plays in the common playtime with the girls from this older room, and previously was interested in the 430-5pm activities initiated by Yuki, so her parents had expected her to settle in quickly despite her own insecurity.

On the drive home, Abi said that she liked being in the new room and that she wanted to go to Union everyday. She also said that she told Atticus that she wouldn't be in his room anymore.