Full day Kindergarten

[Deebs]

There really is no easy decision in parenting, is there? When we finally got our purchase agreement and were able to enroll DD in school, full-day Kindergarten was full. I was very disappointed because she's older for her class, and has been in school for three years to date. IMO, she was so ready for full day K. Also, the only option here is full day, so it's what I had prepared her for.

Yesterday, I received a call from the school. A full-day position opened up, and I jumped on it. Now, I'm freaking out. Why on earth am I sending her to full day K? I'm going to miss her so much (because of course, it's all about me)! She will be in school for the rest of her life, and now I feel like I'm pushing her out of the nest early.

Someone please tell me it's going to be okay.

[v-girl]

It will be great! Can you volunteer at the school 1-2 days a week? May make it easier on you.

[Vanquisher]

I agree, it will be great. My kids both had full-day K, and they loved it. I loved it too because it gave me an opportunity to get something accomplished, unlike half-day which is barely enough time for anything! I love being with my kids, love it. I love summer vacation and all the breaks, but I don't think I would have liked half-day. It would have just been a hard schedule for me.

I did volunteer in the classroom once in a while, and I liked that from time to time.

[Pollyanna]

I completely understand. We only had half day for our first three, #4 went to all day and she loved it. Plus, like Heidi said, the half day schedule is a pain because it is less than three hours so not enough time to accomplish anything. Hang in there mama

[GreyhoundsRUs]

As a kid who loved school, I would have loved full-day K. Especially since she's been in school for 3 years already, it may help make her feel more like a big kid. Just read this the other day: http://thewillcuttgirls.blogspot.com...ay-monday.html

As someone who is about to have an "older" baby (early November), DH and I have had a lot of discussions about schooling - and if your kiddo is ready for it, I think it is great! (Plus, girls mature faster than boys, and are shown more favoritism in elementary school)

Good luck!

[BonBon]

It will be okay!!! It sounds like she's ready. I agree about volunteering if you can. I really like getting to know the other kids in the class, creates more of a connection with your own child.

[SuzySunshine]

You'll be fine and she'll do great. A will have also had 3 years of pre-school before Kindergarten and while I know I'll miss her she will definitely be ready for a full day if we have that option.

[DCJenn]

Full day kindergarten was my only option but we had no problems. He did great. (and our kinder teacher had nap mats for those kids who just couldn't quite make it on any given day. and we parents all pitched in and the Room Parent brought in snacks so we knew those little bellies weren't going to get too hungry) (and volunteer- trust me, your PTA/PTO can use you)

Jenn

[diggitydot]

2 of our 3 did all-day K and loved it. A little tired for the first week or two, but overall a ver good experience.

[lovelight]

We only do full day kindergarten here in Florida (no naps either!) and the kids love it. Yes, they go home completely exhausted for the first few weeks, but then they get used to it. She will do great!

[houseelf]

Deb,

Make sure you let us know how you did with the first day. (Err..I mean how she did. ) I think moms of kindergartners should all get together after the first day for a good long cry and joyful celebration. Thinking of you.

[Phoebe]

My second did full-day. She was older for her class and needs the structure. She loved it! Your daughter will do fine and most likely will love the independence from her younger siblings. Kindergarten is fun!

[lovelight]

My school does a "boo hoo breakfast" for all the moms on the first day!

[peggyfromwastate]

We only have full day here. It seems like a long day at first, but now I feel like the school day isn't long enough lol. 6 hours!!! What can I get done in 6 measly hours!!

Oh well. You will all do fine-- it's an adjustment but what most teachers and parents who I've talked to on the subject say the full day allows more down time, creative play, and fun. The half day is too jam packed with the "learning" that's required, and kindergarteners are expected to learn quite a but now. It turns out to be less stress for all concerned... That's what I was told.

[lovelight]

We have full day and our day is still packed with too much learning and not enough creative play and free choice. I can't fathom jamming it into half day!