Are we ready for full time Montessori?

[cakemama579]

Hi Everyone,

My 2.5 year old DS is set to begin his first year of primary in 3 weeks. He has been home with me until now.

He has been potty trained since he turned 2, but lately has been having accidents in the house (even though he knows how to go all by himself to the potty). He has also been extra clingy to me lately, and asking to nurse a ton! He has also been crying whenever I leave the house, even when he is with his dad, and fyi he stops crying within about 10 minutes or so after I'm gone. Just gives me a really hard time of it!

Are we/is he ready to start this 5 day program in 3 weeks? I thought we were, then with the change in behavior lately I'm left a little insecure about our decision. Would love to hear from anyone with experience in this.

Thanks!!

[carmel23]

is the program 5 half days per week? If yes, then Primary would totally help with the anxiety your little one is experiencing. (I use the word anxiety not in a clinical sense, it is totally developmentally normal for kids to have clingy phases like this).

I think the order and predictability and the gentle stretching of the prepared environment is great for little ones. Practical life really makes them feel capable, too!

If it is 5 full days, it might be more difficult, but really kids adapt quickly. And I think 2.5 is the ideal age for preschool.

[bdoody11]

I think 5 days will be better for him for than part-time- say 3 days week. I know our Montessori finds continuity is the best way to alive anxiety.

Perhaps he knows big changes are coming? Maybe talking with him about his feelings about school and the upcoming transition would help.

[cakemama579]

Originally Posted by carmel23

is the program 5 half days per week? If yes, then Primary would totally help with the anxiety your little one is experiencing. (I use the word anxiety not in a clinical sense, it is totally developmentally normal for kids to have clingy phases like this).

I think the order and predictability and the gentle stretching of the prepared environment is great for little ones. Practical life really makes them feel capable, too!

If it is 5 full days, it might be more difficult, but really kids adapt quickly. And I think 2.5 is the ideal age for preschool.

The program is 5 half days, and 2 of the days he will have to stay for a full day in the extended "nappers" program. I thought it best not to start nappers for a couple of weeks, and let him get used to the morning routine first. what do you think?

I think he definitely has a sense that there are big changes coming, and my own anxiety has probably become apparent to him. I really need to step up as his mom and do my part to be strong about this! I'm sure that would ease any worries he is having.

We did go out and buy a special sleeping bag for his naps that he'll have at school, and he had fun checking that out (first time of seeing a blanket with zippers, wowee!)-- although he wasn't thrilled when I told him it was for his school program.

Thanks for the advice and support.

[carmel23]

I bet he is picking up on your anxiety. Which is normal and okay (don't stress over that!).

When we have something like this going on, a big change, we talk about how we are EXCITED! Your body reacts the same way when you are nervous *or* excited, so we put the positive spin on it. This may not help with your little guy, but it may help you, mama.

I agree that the continuity is best. I've had kids attend school 3 days per week on and off, and it is hard. Its like a whole week of Mondays! I like the continuity as well, and the kids do, too. They know what to expect. They don't worry about it being a school day or not, yk?

My 3.5 year-old is going to start 4 1/2 days per week soon. She is very excited.

[3belles]

I would say yes, he would benefit from practicing being away. Try not to talk about it in front of him too much, that could be the anxiety of some looming date.