Registering My Child for Kindergarten: Mixed Emotions for This Memorable Milestone by Rhiannon Bowden

Thursday, April 19, was a normal day for most. However, for some it was a day full of emotion. This was the day some of us realized our little ones are growing up too fast. The time had come to register our kids for kindergarten. For me personally, the day was a roller coaster, making sure I had all the papers and that my child was ready to answer all the questions. Like many parents, we worried that our kid would act silly or shy when meeting a new teacher. My 4-year-old was shy at first but once he went with the teacher we could see him relax. We knew then that he really was ready.

I had mixed emotions. I was proud, worried, sad and relieved. I felt excited getting him ready for this next stage. I was excited to finally say “no more daycare!” (I know many parents can relate!) I was sad to be looking at my oldest and realize he is no longer a toddler, he is no longer dependent on me for everything; he is growing up. That was a scary thought, but unlike many, we did not cry. Instead, we hugged him and smiled.

Tears can come when he is officially in school. We went to the playground afterwards to run around and celebrate this important milestone in his life.