Dawn,

I wouldn't have dreamed of taking away the bus trip from my kids. It means so much to them. Unless driving them is part of your everyday plans, on the 1st day I would have them do what they'll be doing regularly. All the kids and parents are learning the routine and it's best for them to do what they will normally be doing on the first day. If you want to do something special, like take them for ice cream, meet them at the bus stop in your car and go right then.

Our school does a great job at easing the transition for both students AND parents. The 1st day on the bus for K is not the same as for other kids. We have 3 transitional days where the child goes for a 45 minute assessment with the teacher for just one of those days.

On the 4th day of school, the K kids ride the bus. By this time, the older kids already know the drill and there is less confusion. The bus drivers are all quite patient and the bus often runs slightly late as they allow time for photo-ops at the bus stop. Honestly, my kids had strict instructions to get on the bus step, turn for a picture, then go their seats. They were so excite , all I got was the backs of their heads .

Once the kids are on the bus, all the K parents run to their cars to meet the bus at the school. All the big kids filter into the school and to their classrooms. The K kids were instructed during their testing time with the teacher to "meet me at the flagpole". There is plenty of time to take pics of the kids getting off the bus and lining up with their teachers. (Don't forget the photo in front of the school sign, as this will be a nice tradition). Plenty of time for hugs and kisses and the kids are off to their 1st day.

For the ride home, they wear a name tag for a week (which has moms phone number and the bus number) and the K teacher does a great job of making sure they get on the right bus. For kids who leave at the end of the day with the rest of the school, the K kids are dismissed a bit earlier and get on the bus before the mob of bigger kids are dismissed. This continued throughout the year.

I do think your family is being insensitive, even if it's good-natured ribbing. They just don't "get" what a big adjustment this is for you. Heck, you have been with the kids 24/7 for 5 years. Going to school is a HUGE milestone for you and for them. I actually found K easy to handle. But when my oldest went to full-day, I REALLY missed him and hated not being a part of what he experienced. That being said, I'm REALLY looking forward to missing my girls in the same way this year.

MonsterMom6
10 year old ^b^ b twins @ 30w5d (1 survivor) and
8 year old gggg quads @ 32w0d