This one could qualify for the Facebook thread as well, but I think it's better suited here.
Mom is in the dilemma of a lifetime, because she fears her kid won't be academically challenged in kindergarten. This, after spending the last couple of years in what seems to be some sort of super pre-school. It's like one long thinly-veiled brag with a little self-created drama/problem for mom and daughter.
Link to the blog ----->
https://inspiredlivingkc.com/2016/09/12/kindergarten-tears/I felt my daughter was kindergarten ready last year, therefore 1st grade ready now… Unfortunately birth date restrictions prohibit or mandate kids start according to a standardized system of laws out of my control.
Some Facebook posts & subsequent replies below:MOM: I may be making too much out of something easy, though, I am feeling regrets about Parker's kindergarten education. For different reasons than you may think. How would you approach a teacher to voice your concerns?
CONCERNED FRIEND 1: Schedule a conference so you can talk face to face.
MOM: There is a curriculum meeting tomorrow evening with parents and the teacher. It won't just be me so I thought I might e-mail her in advance.
I am just suck on how to even approach her without offending her. :barf
CONCERNED FRIEND 1: Yeah that can be tough but it's also important to voice your concerns if it's something that really bothers you.
CONCERNED FRIEND 2: Keep it positive in approach. Your daughter has to come first, so beyond that....don't worry too much about her taking it personal. Good teachers should understand .
MOM: Did you read my blog post? I think it has a lot to do with being dissatisfied with the school before it even started and the naivety a 1st year teacher may have. :barf I'm trying to be patient and now I need to say something.
Second Conversation In Thread:
FRIEND 3 (Probably also has genius kid): possibly in your email indicate how you would like to speak to her in private? You have an exceptionally smart child that needs challenged! If she's a good teacher who loves children she will hear you out and not be offended. I'm learning along with many parents how to "embrace" common core and it's difficult. Having those conversations can be difficult but you are her most dedicated advocate, and she needs you and Reggie. There are a lot of restrictions but there is also always a way! Good luck my friend. It will be okay!
MOM:I don't think I am capable of embracing common core. I'd rather protest in Washington.
SUPPORTIVE DUDE: It is a really well written blog Mom, I didn't comprehend how much thought would go into picking a Kindergarden. What does Parker say about school? Do they have any gifted options for higher learners? It sounds like Parker is really advanced for her age and I understand your fear of regerssion or doing things because you are told to not because you want to learn. Your blog really made me think what I will someday want in a school system for my daughter. Thanks for me making me think. Hope all is well.
Edited to add a final gem from the Facebook convo:
MOM (responding to a post about learning social skills in school):
I understand what you mean about it learning to be a student, I'm just afraid she's doing more to help the other kids learn to be students and that's why she loves having Parker in class so much. Parker is losing her love for school and that didn't happen for me until around 5th grade.