For good and bad, today launched me firmly into the new role of “parent of school-aged children”. My twin sons had their kindergarten screening this morning. The boys were great (thank goodness), I was nervous (no surprise there) and the teachers were friendly (awesome!). The boys were escorted to the screening room while I waited with other parents, aunts and big sisters. Unfortunately, as the door to the screening room closed, an advertisement came squarely into view. What was it for?….wait for it…A local live performance of High-School Musical! [cringe]
“Oh!” cheered an aunt, “I didn’t know about that! Let me write it down so I can take my niece!” She was delighted. I was deflated. I had to tread lightly though, since this is my first time at school in the parent role. I nodded and said nothing. I wondered why the school would even be advertising this show. It is as if the school endorses High School Musical for its incoming kindergartners! I will have to practice what I will say next time to another parent – though tomorrow I will be calling the school. (The district kindergarten screening wasn’t at the school my boys will actually attend, but I still want to register my concerns.) Deep breath…I know this is just the beginning. I can’t dwell too long on all the battles ahead – just going to take it one day at a time.
OK, enough of the bad news. The good news is, I just got reconnected with a fantastic organization. I had somehow lost track of their excellent work, but received their newsletter yesterday and was reminded what an incredible resource they are. Fair Play for Children is based in the UK, and as their website describes:
Fair Play for Children exists to promote understanding and action on the Child’s Right to Play. We recognise the importance of Play in the Child’s life and development. Also that this Right does not exist in isolation from other Rights of the Child. And that its importance transcends borders.
Hands down, they have the most comprehensive and up to date website I have ever seen – with daily links to stories from around the world that relate to children’s rights in regards to health, play and more. Outstanding. Thank you Fair Play for Children for being part of the good news…(even when you are sharing bad news). I needed you today!
Thanks, kind of you to say.
Jan
Fair Play for Children
I imagine you will not get the kind of response you are looking for when you call the district office. I am also sure as parents we will constantly be faced with these situations. My goal is to raise my children's awareness of these situations and how to react. I feel like there is a tension between isolation and insulation that comes with parenting and images/messages that are potentially harmful to the character-building I am trying to instill. Good luck with the school year ahead. When N was placed in a class with older students, the amount of pop culture he was suddenly thrust into was unimaginable. I am sure your kids will get a sudden crash course. I feel like it is a challenge to find like-minded parents (even my relatives) for my kids to socialize with regularly. I just have to remind myself that it doesn't undo all of the parenting we've done up to that point.
I feel compelled to chime in here, because it is hard to be a teacher and a parent sometimes when you have a very specific vision for education that most don't share or think about.
I have gotten into arguments, hidden from other parents, and at other times just shut my mouth. There have been a few moments when the stars align and I have been able to enlighten, improve, and influence. The trick is locating that moment.
I trust that you are a better diplomat than I, and you will find those moments quickly. Good luck with all transitions, and many thanks again for being our fabulous teacher when we went through this ritual!
I actually got a positive response when calling the school! I was surprised and encouraged. The administrator was receptive to my questions and did not know the ad was displayed. Happily, it no longer is! It will be a new experience being a school parent after two decades of being a teacher – thanks, everyone, for the advice/wisdom.
I am so so glad that they were receptive to your comments, Geralyn!