Good day for a change

Today was a good day. Why? Because I finally had some positive feedback about one of my children. Positive reinforcement. It works for parents too. In fact, it works so well that my husband commented tonight that I was in the best mood he's seen me in for at least a couple of weeks.

Without further ado, this, apparently is what it takes to put me in a good mood:

I went to get M from the "sibling care" room where she is entertained during K's ECFE class. I opened the door and was greeted by her smiling face, as usual. She has a great time in this room with these 2 young women and one other 4-year-old, and several toddlers/babies.

The women who care for her in my absence told me today: "M is soooo much fun to have here." "She really is so polite." "She's a joy to be around." "She's so well-behaved."

Seriously? I thought they were talking to some invisible mommy behind me.

I told the women how great it was to hear something like that, because, let's face it, you don't often hear good things. It's just a fact of life, if your kid is generally good, the teachers and care-givers just don't say anything to you.

When you've had a bunch of crappy parenting days in a row. . . a little positive reinforcement can go a long way.

I was more patient in the car on the way home. Lunch? Much more relaxed.

We were late for preschool. Know what? I didn't care that much.

Then I got to my parent group today for M's preschool. Our topic? Friendships and play and how our kids are developing these "skills."

I think 3-4 moms in the group said something positive about Miss M and her social skills.

I'm not sure how much of these skills I had anything to do with. Her daddy is a pretty social guy and can chat up anyone, anywhere. But I did get her into ECFE very early and we did playgroups even when the kids didn't acknowledge another kid in the room.

Whatever the reason, she's Miss Social. My hostess when I forget to offer drinks or whatever. And, apparently, already learning to be a good friend.

YAY for days like these. And for kids like mine.


You go, Miss M! I wish I could be like you too.