🥊 Fighting Kids

The Adventures of a Two-Year-Old:

(Tales from the Daycare Drop-off)

or

Fighting Kids!

The Surprising Story Behind Olive's Tears 😢

I run in…disheveled 

Facilitator, “ Everything ok Andrew?”

“I almost had to join this weeks session from Jail!… Well… Let me start from the beginning.”

“Hi my name is Andrew, and I’m a Father”

Group, “Hi Andrew.”

I wave. Tired.

If you’re a parent, you know that every week holds new and sometimes unexpected challenges. And if you're not, you get to chuckle and sigh with relief, for now. This week in our parenting journey, we dive into the curious case of Olive and her sudden shift in daycare drop-off dynamics.

1: The Plot Thickens at Daycare

When a kid, who's been attending daycare happily for six months, suddenly starts crying at drop-off, it can set off alarm bells in any parent’s head. Such was the case with our little Olive last week. Cue the dramatic music, folks. Now, we all know Olive loves school, so it was quite a surprise when she started her morning waterworks.

The truely alarming part was how it came out of nowhere. Our mornign routine, stellar, identical. Filled with laughs and jokes, food and affirmations as they always were.

But when it came time for the Teacher to take her from the school carpool, she burst into tears. 🤭 

You can explore this podcast episode of Janet Lansbury's "Unruffled", which provides insights into dealing with changes in your child's behavior.

2: The Great Social Media Debate

So, what's a modern parent to do when faced with a mystery like this? Well one course of action to reach out to my Village. Poll parents who may have been through something similar… On social media of course. Predictably, the range of suggestions varied as wildly as kids' appetites. Some comments were well meaning, including surprise check-ins, pulling her out of the school for a while. Some were a little further out there. confronting parents, teachers and even (gasp!) violence. Fortunately, the majority offered more rational advice, like talking to Olive. Though this seemed a challenge considering Olive’s recent second birthday, and knack for imaginative storytelling. Imagine trying to get a full detailed account of a day from an adult who doesn’t speak the same language as you… and is drunk, and hungry, and who wants to watch Bluey!

For more on engaging in meaningful conversations with your toddler, you might enjoy reading The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson.

3: A Heart-to-Heart with Olive

Despite our reservations about the effectiveness of a heart-to-heart with a two-year-old, we took the plunge. The conversation topics? School, friends, snacks, aching body parts - you know, standard interrogation stuff. I guess what?? Olive thrived! Thankfully, she reassured us that all was well at school. Phew!

4: The Surprise Visit

A surprise visit to Olive's school was the next step in our mission. I am after all not opposed to the aforementioned confrontations and violence if I see anything foul happening to my baby! But also, you know, just to ensure there weren't dinosaurs (or kids…or teachers) on a biting spree. And to my relief, everything seemed perfectly normal.

Section 5: Understanding the Change

As it turns out, the cause of Olive's morning tears might be closer to home. With the arrival of our newest family member, January, Olive's world has been turned upside down. She's now a big sister with a big responsibility. No wonder she's feeling a bit overwhelmed! Its seems that she never wants to leave her side for too long. Cue the Awwwws. She often talks of the missing family menbers when they’re not around. Out with mommy.. she all “ Daddy, Baby sister.” Out with Daddy.. “Mommy, Baby sister..” She likes our foursome in tact. and who can blame her?

A podcast episode of The Longest Shortest Time titled "The Sibling Invasion" offers more insights into helping your child adjust to a new sibling.

6: The Conclusion (or the lack of it)

Back to daycare on Tuesday, Olive was all smiles, waving, and blowing kisses like the pro she is. However, Wednesday was a different story. Her mixed emotions are a testament to her journey of growing up and learning to deal with new emotions.

Questions for you!

This week left us with questions, laughter, and a newfound respect for the complexities of being a two-year-old. How about you? What steps do you take when you sense something's off at your child's daycare? Do you believe they can accurately communicate what's happening?

If you ever suspect child abuse, it's crucial to report it immediately. You can contact Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) in the US. Check here for child protection services in other countries.

For steps to take if you suspect child abuse at a daycare, read this informative article.

The best piece of advice I've received, and one that I now share with you, is to take it one day at a time. Olive's change in behavior reminded us that every day is different, with new challenges, new milestones, and yes, new tears. Each day brings a fresh start and a chance to navigate the unpredictable waters of parenthood anew.

We're all in this together, Villagers. As always, remember that it takes a village to raise a child, and our community is here for you, whether it's your first tearful daycare drop-off or your hundredth.

Hey Parents! If you’re in need of some extra help around the house… If you’re losing yourself in laundry or boxes long overdue to be unpacked.. or if you can no longer see the back of your refrigerator, closet, or pantry… Our parent company, Village, provides on-demand assistance so you can focus on the things that are most important. Click the link to find out more! 😀 

Until next time, breathe, love, laugh, and remember to take a moment for yourself amidst the beautiful chaos that is parenting. Here's to the journey from one to two, through daycare drop-offs, and beyond.

Sending love and light from our family to yours,

CPO - Chief Parenting Officer

P.S. Share your stories! Have you had a similar experience with changes in your child's behavior? Reply to this email, and we might feature your experience in our next newsletter. 💌

Dad Joke

Q: What do you call a Frenchman wearing sandals?

A: Philippe Flop.