Back to School

School started back this week and the relief to be back in a routine is huge. There was much anxiety in the lead up mostly from me because I expected the worst from Leni but was pleasantly surprised by how smooth things went.

The few days before he started back we had a chat about school day expectations so he knew what we needed from him both morning and night. This really helped set some boundaries and leaves little room for surprises.

His first day back went well. We arrived at school and walked him in, but he actually asked us to leave so he could go and play with his friends for a few minutes before the bell went. We did stand there and watch him for a little, just so I could be sure he was ok and then we did leave. Seeing him settled and comfortable was such a weight off my shoulders.

At school pick up he seemed tired but not frustrated or upset which was great. He did get a little moody that night and slightly confrontational but he got up the next day and off he went again.

Overall it’s been a good week. We can only hope that the remainder of the term is the same. I am a different person when I head off to work knowing that he is ok. To not spend my work day worrying about him is such a relief.

It makes such a difference to our lives when things go smoothly and the walls are down. Fighting Leni on everything is so exhausting so for now we are going to bask in the back to school glory we have and learn how to breathe again after holding our breath for so long.