Parent-Teacher Conference

It is clear that the purpose of a parent-teacher conference at a private daycare is this: make the parents feel good about continuing to send their child (and money).  We knew this going in.  But it was still pleasant to share a 10-minute Jonah love-fest with his teachers!  They complimented Jonah on how well he transitioned, how hard it is to believe he just turns 12mo., what a good eater he is, how easily he goes down for nap, etc.  I could have listened to it all day.  :-)  They certainly met the objective and alleviated the uncertainty we had had with his infant teachers, most of whom didn't seem to like Jonah all that much.  We picked up a few tidbits that were nice for filling in the gaps of what Jonah does all day at school:

1. Jonah can find his own napping mat, lie down and put himself to sleep with just a verbal prompt.  His mat is next to the mirror and he likes to watch himself quietly or read a book when he wakes up.
2. Jonah gets excited for outdoor time and runs over to the hooks to get his own coat when it's time!
3. Jonah is given a spoon for lunch, but often eats with the other hand for efficiency.  After lunch this week he dumped his dirty plate into the trash can to help clean up!
4. Jonah and Melanie were caught hugging and kissing each other on the forehead.  :-)  Jonah is best buds with James and they are always together.  He also recognizes his friends and played with a little visitor he remembered from the infant room.
5. Jonah spends a lot of time in the art corner of the room with the paper and crayons.
6. Jonah loves circle time and dances along to the songs.  When the teachers sing his name he recognizes his turn and waves to all his classmates!
7. Jonah only cries for a minute after being dropped off (to make us feel guilty) and spends the rest of the day enjoying his independence and playing.