The Joy of Kindergarten Graduation

It’s graduation season; time to note achievement. High school, trade school, college, and advanced degree celebrations are duly warranted for those whose perseverance rose above challenge. And then there’s kindergarten.

My granddaughter, Amelia is graduating from kindergarten. Way back in August, I remember having conversations with my daughter, Amelia’s mom, about the usual angst of sending her first born off to school.

My daughter wondered how her child would handle the awkwardness of making new friends. She hoped Amelia’s teacher and school support staff would “see” her, and provide an environment of encouragement so that Amelia’s mind would expand and flourish. My daughter wondered about the unknown, hoping the clutter of the big world wouldn’t permeate the unscathed and tender 5-year-old mind too quickly. Ultimately, as so many of us moms understand, letting go is hard, even in kindergarten.

To every kindergarten teacher out there, you have the heartfelt gratitude of so many families. Your embrace beyond a parent’s reach provides the fertile environment where learning and love coexist. Seeds of wonder are planted in your charge. I’ve been the recipient of many Face Time calls with Amelia because she just had to share her excitement about her day at school. Even though we live in different states, I feel like I know the heart and purpose of Amelia’s teacher. Celebrating the accomplishment of kindergarten makes us all just plain happy. There is no better gift to give such beautiful little minds.

 Kindergarten is the first real opportunity to figure out how to do life. Listening, learning, sharing, being respectful of others, and discovering through the vast continuum of curiosity and eagerness generate an excitement for learning we hope Amelia will hold on to for a long, long time. Congratulations kindergarten class of 2021. As you rise to first grade, the whole world is cheering you on.