This weekend our family faced a milestone (okay, so it was really Immy’s milestone but it was big for me and I am pretty sure Dad 101 felt the same). On Saturday, Immy had her first swimming lesson without Dad 101 or I in the pool. She has graduated to the ‘kindy 1’ class, the level where they have lessons in a small group with the swimming teacher as the only adult in the pool to watch over them. Admittedly, Dad 101 and I both hovered two or three footsteps away should we be required to assist (as if!).
Immy was ready. She loves the water. She is confident in and around the water (sometimes I think overly so). She is just like her Dad who will swim at the beach on a sunny day in Winter (strange, I know!). She was ready.
Me. Not so much.
I felt a strange lump in my throat. Tears hovered just behind my eyelids. This little step seemed like a huge leap to me. A moving away. She didn’t need me for this.
I know this will be the first of many times.
She had a ball. She was confident and happy. She listened and did what was asked.
And me. I took the first step in learning to let go.
Christie Burnett is a teacher, presenter, writer and the mother of two. She created Childhood 101 as a place for teachers and parents to access engaging, high quality learning ideas.
Sooo looking forward to that day, but we are not quite there yet. We missed a year of swimming lessons when I went back to work, but it i more that Princess doesn't listen and won't straighten her legs when she kicks.
But I can remember to the feeling of great pride as I watched them and saw how confident and proud of themselves.
I guess for me, dealing with those times will be trying to live it through their eyes, with their excitement, expectation, etc.... then it won't be so hard to let go (at least I hope!)
I am glad she enjoyed herself :)
Boo starts in the DEEP water on Friday, not just up to her neck or shoulders as has been the case to now but where she can't stand. I might be hovering a little too :)