Toddler Time

On Monday, Jaden and I went to our first session of Toddler Time together. I think I referred to it as Puppy Class when I was discussing this with my sister. I was overwhelmed. I can't imagine how Jaden felt.

Ten toddlers, toddling. There was some "structure" to the class: playtime, circle time, snack time, and parent circle time. I was looking forward to meeting some other stay-at-home moms. At the rate we began, I will complete a conversation with a parent in the group at about week six. Controlled chaos is the only term that can accurately describe those ninety minutes. I don't know why I'd expect anything else, considering my daily existence at this point is considered a success as long as everyone/thing in the house has been somewhat adequately fed, bathroomed and entertained.

The official circle time lasted about ten minutes. Jaden's lasted two. Then he went off to play on the slide, and to push the dolly in the cart, and to throw various balls throughout the room. I didn't know if he was even paying attention to the rest of the goings on until one adorable little girl came and sat on my lap. Within ten seconds Jaden was at my side vehemently protesting the arrival of another child on his mom's lap. Kids are funny little creatures.

We topped off Toddler Time this week with a trip to storytime at the library today. It lasted thirty minutes. Jaden only screamed his head off once (his balance is a little off today) and only sat down never. The absolute highlight was when the nice woman telling stories to 25 wee ones put stamps on each of their hands. Jaden was mesmerized. He smeared the ink immediately and stared at his little fist the whole way home. I'm kind of scared he is skipping his nap right now while commiserating with his purple stamp. Note to self: get hand stamps.

So begin our experiences in the world of early childhood education. As a high school teacher, none of this is innate. While I'm a mean dancer (seriously, my Running Man is awesome) I am not a good singer (understatement.) Apparently kids Jaden's age LOVE for everything to be a song. Since Monday I've made up two really good tunes that make Jaden stop in his tracks. I feel like the Pied Piper. I'll upload one of my original hits when it is good enough for recording. I may even choreograph a dance to go along with it. For that I fully expect a Mom of the Year award.

We'll take a break from "learning" this weekend to watch some more football. I'd hate to overdo things in the first few weeks.