Today I’m a Mom

A couple of things have me really basking in my role as a mom.

First, I have been home with my daughter today. About a week ago, she managed to knock out a crown from her front tooth. Fortunately, we found the crown and she hadn’t swallowed it. Unfortunately, we had to schedule a visit to the dentist to have it replaced. On top of it all, it was likely she would need sedation in order to get it done. So we arrived an hour early for her appointment and talked about the procedure. Surprise! No sedation needed. They were able to numb the area and replace it in no time. Best of all, there was no charge!

The second thing marks the end of an era. I just wrote my last check to daycare. Yep. For nine and half years I have written a check to the same daycare. And I just dropped my last one in the box. Since both kids will be in school all day this fall, we won’t need daycare. It’s a very strange feeling, as the daycare has always made me feel like I was part of a family. They took excellent care of my kids and even made special accommodations when my daughter required extra care. I’ll miss them. And I think they’ll miss us… well, the kids anyway. And maybe my checks!

Today I’m a Proud Mom

As a parent of a child with special needs, I’ve learned to appreciate the little things in life. My daughter was born with a chromosome disorder and diagnosed with Rett Syndrome. She has never learned to talk or walk and spends a large amount of her day in a wheelchair. She’s a social little girl and loves to spend time with other kids. Actually, she likes being with people in general.

Every time I take her into daycare, I’m reminded of how unbiased and pure the minds of preschool children can be. The kids embrace her, welcome her, share toys, sing songs and hold her hand. They see the little girl. Not the wheelchair.

I’m a proud Mom today, because I’ve been thinking about what she’s done:

• Created new classroom dynamics. Her presence has helped educate the kids about differences, understanding, patience and assistance beyond what a typical preschool curriculum could offer.
• Made a positive impact on the daycare program. The program now includes accommodations for special needs kids and also partners with the school district to allow preschoolers (typical and special needs) to share a learning environment.
• Touched a great number of hearts. When she goes to elementary school in the fall, it’s not just the classroom teachers that will miss her smiling face, but also the volunteers, maintenance workers, administrators, kids and their parents.

It’s funny how so many of us get caught up in making the right impression — wearing the right clothes, saying the right things or always acting appropriately. When others have the innate ability to make their mark without ever expecting anything in return.