Elle Belle: That Back-To-School Feeling

There have been so many monumental milestones and firsts for me: walking, walking backwards, talking, and talking back. Ha! I crack myself up. But I’m using my humor to sugarcoat the next big first coming up that I am secretly super excited but seriously scared about—starting Kindergarten!

No need for the waterworks. I can keep myself together (unlike my Mommy). But hear me out. I crushed preschool and after finally getting to know all the ins and outs, they told me it was time to move on. They had a whole ceremony and celebration, called a Moving On Ceremony. I appreciate the solid send-off—but why can’t I stay?

Kindergarten is serious stuff. It has new schedules, new rules, new teachers, new friends (I hope!) and new expectations of me as a big kid. But I’m only 5!

Of course I mastered preschool and need to keep learning. I totally get it. They say preschool is a stepping stone (whatever that is) for my excellent education. We all know that I know my ABCs and 123s as well as the Jackson 5, so now I have new and exciting challenges and subject matter to learn in Kindergarten. I love learning and love challenges so I am absolutely up for it. Bring it on.

I can do anything if I set my mind to it. Like getting Daddy to say yes to anything I want, reaching forbidden things I shouldn’t be able to, or using my voracious vocabulary to work my way out of any precarious situation. Clearly, I am one determined little lady. But I am also a creature of habit, so transitions aren’t always easy. I love everything about school: learning, playing, teachers, friends, and more, but every so often I fear Kindergarten and wish I could pause here and stay like this forever. But in spite of all my great work and inventions, I still cannot freeze time.

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I know Mommy is so excited for me but at times longs for her little baby kicking and squealing in the BabyBjorn while she wore me. Those were the days! We were inseparable—literally. But we will still be inseparable and she will be there for all the great new things Kindergarten will bring. Plus, I know some things won’t be new. We will still take our requisite first day of school pictures and I will proudly flash my best smile. We may not agree on my outfit choice but I will wear my favorite attire because Mommy taught me to be my own person. Besides, everyone has always adored my unique sense of style. I will still sport a sensational back pack, have the yummy lunches that are packed for me, and unconditionally love learning.

But what if I get lost in my new school? Or my teacher is scary? Or I don’t make new friends? I know I love school and learning, but I’m still a little scared. So Mommy reminds me of all the fun and excitement that a new school and school year will bring and my million dollar smile returns. Plus, I remember that Mommy’s love is always with me. And no matter what is thrown my way, she’ll always be there to help me save the day. Mommy makes a pretty good sidekick.

My heart is so big and full of love and my mind is wide open and ready to learn. I am strong and smart and am excited for the next chapter. So let’s hold strong together. We got this!

Kindergarten is going to be amazing for everyone. Who knows what I will learn each day, how much art I can create, what favorite book I may discover in reading, combust in science lab, or just how many times I will need that extra change of clothes they ask you to pack? But what I know for sure is ready or not—I’m going to Kindergarten!

Elle Belle is an adorable Kindergartener who lives in the Upper East Side of Manhattan with her magnificent mommy, dapper dad, and cutie pie little sister. She can be reached at ellebellenyc@gmail.com.

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