I was talking to Mackenzie about everything going on right now in the world, obviously including the tragic event that occurred in Ct, we do this often even before Friday, and I asked her if any of her teachers or school folk mentioned it. Mack went on to tell me that in the morning announcement they did a “longer than usual” moment of silence (yes, they still do those in school here after the Pledge of Allegiance) and her principal told the kiddos they can not be scared and to just live life to the fullest! I like this. Mack is at an age where she knows whats going on and we are very open with her about things so I really appreciated his short but seemingly honest answer. I say seemingly because, let’s face it, we are all a little nervous right now when we drop our kiddos off at school. I know it’s not just me. This is natural human behavior and it will probably pass, but until then, I think it is ok for us parents with kids in the public school system to feel how we feel, no matter what anyone says.
I asked Mack if she was scared, her answer: are you? Mine, of course, was no…which is the truth, to a degree, but I would NEVER let her know MY sort of fear of her being away at a place she is supposed to feel safe at. This is one of those exceptions to the rules where I think it is ok to lie to my child! When I answered her question I could see her curiosity and doubt instantly turn to confidence.
