Ryder Starts Pre-K

Our sweet little boy started Pre-Kindergarten today at a brand new school in a brand new town, and it was a wonderful experience!

Ryder Steven Alway | First Day of Pre-K | September 5, 2018

Prior to our relocation to the Olympia area, I did a bunch of research on local preschools, and eventually found one that I thought would be the best fit for our little buddy's big personality. Cadence Academy Preschool gives children "an exceptional education every fun-filled day in a place as nurturing as home."

Although Ryder won't be hanging out on a farm like he did last year, he won't have a barnyard at elementary school either, so we're confident that his experience here will be an excellent transition to prepare him for Kindergarten. And in the meantime, we'll just have to plan extra trips to the zoo. 

Cadence Education schools use an expertly developed curriculum to give every student the skills and confidence for the next step in their life. "Kind Child" coursework emphasizes social skills, courtesy, and internal values, while "Kindergarten Club" prepares Pre-K students with key skills to excel in problem-solving, mathematics, reading/writing, social studies, and science. 

Everybody learns better when they're having fun, and Ryder jumped in immediately. The school has a large outdoor area filled with various equipment and activities, and hopefully we'll get a few more weeks of nice weather to take advantage of it. 

This year I was much more emotional than Ryder when I dropped him off. He gave me a lovely hug and kiss goodbye, but looked back for a second a little longingly before heading off to play with his new friends. It felt like a chunk broke off of my heart, and I expect to feel this way more and more as he continues to grow and gain his independence. But I also swelled with pride at his bravery during this new experience. And although he admitted that it was a long day (this year he's doing full days at school), he also came home with lots of stories about his fun-filled day. 

I can't wait to see how much he blossoms this year.

We love you so much, sweet Ryder Steven, and we're so proud of you!