Earlier this year, a certain young boy of my acquaintance (seen here in festive Thanksgiving vest and headband) refused to set foot in the multipurpose room for assembly and dance class. It was too loud, too chaotic and too too much for him. He managed decently during lunch, when the need to eat briefly trumped the fear of noise--but only just.
On Fridays, he'd insist on skipping assembly in favor of "quiet recess" with a much-loved support teacher.
He detests that room. He hates microphones, crowds and noise. He hates loud echoes, the squeak of sneakers on linoleum, bright lights, amplified music.
But here he was today, onstage with the entire Kindergarten class, at his school's Thanksgiving Pageant. He didn't sing (this time), but he clapped and, most importantly, sat with all the other kids, his eyes fixed on me as I madly snapped photos.
I had hoped we could maybe get to this point by -- I don't know -- 2nd grade? So the idea that he trusted his teachers enough to do this in his first semester as a Kindergartner just stuns me.
Teachers, I am so thankful. Isaac, I am so proud of you.
Congratulations! What a fabulous achievement!
Posted by: Stimey | November 25, 2008 at 07:06 PM
Hooray!! That's a Really Big Deal! I'm so excited to hear about this progress. He just keeps moving along so well, I'm thrilled to hear it.
Posted by: Jordan | November 25, 2008 at 07:34 PM
Now *that* trumps any pumpkin pie!
I am thankful that you share your beautiful boy and his journey with all of us. xo
Posted by: Niksmom | November 25, 2008 at 08:34 PM
Oh Susan. This made my whole holiday. LOOK at that earnest little punim!
Posted by: drama mama | November 26, 2008 at 06:24 AM
What a beautiful, beautiful picture!
Nonna and Grandpa
Posted by: Nonna | November 26, 2008 at 02:32 PM
Amazing. You're a great writer and this blog is so inspiring. I've never met Isaac but I'm so proud of his achievements!
Posted by: Corie Pierce | November 27, 2008 at 07:34 PM