Tav's Last Day of Preschool

This has been an amazing thing for Tav.  He has LOVED preschool.  It's been his thing, his friends, his teachers, something all just for him.  And for this second-born, that's a huge deal.  Of course he doesn't realize how that all works, but I can see how great this preschool experience has been for his independence, his confidence and his social development.  I am so thankful that he had this opportunity (as is he).  Today was his last day of the preschool year.  Parents and caregivers (and little siblings) were invited to join the kids for their final storytime and a celebratory snack time.  The preschoolers were on the circle time rug when we came into the room and we got to sit around the kids and catch a glimpse of what they've been up to all year.  They did a story first for which they had made little puppets (in the boxes you will see) to go along with it and they all participated by saying a repetitive line in the story.  Enjoy the pics and video.  As you can see, Tavin is totally into it.  

Next they moved on to some little songs they had been working on.  In this video, you'll see the end of the first song where they are singing about the parts of an insect, then they transition into their next song about making new friends.  Tavin has no qualms and offers to start the song and isn't timid about it at all.  I'm just amazed at his boldness.  What an amazing answer to prayer that his struggles with articulation have in no way hindered his ability to participate and feel like he can participate like any other student (not to mention all the progress he has made this year).  Praise God!!

After the adorable storytime, we headed over for snack time.  Look at how sweet as they say a blessing over their food.  

There's my sweet Tav with his classmates.  Oh, I just couldn't get enough of him in his preschool element.  

Tav's teacher had a surprise for the students...personalized sugar cookies.  Each child has had a "letter link" all year to identify their things, their attendance, their jobs, etc.  Tavin chose on his first day to be "T is for Turtle, T is for Tavin."  And then today he gobbled it up!

Penn was so, so excited to be in Tavin's classroom today.  He played for most of storytime in the toy area.  Then, of course, he jumped at the chance to join in at snacktime.  Doesn't he just look all ready for preschool?  Not yet, Penn Rye, Mommy gets another year first!

Before we left, Tavin got some pictures with special friends and all of his teachers.

As you can see, this year has been full of special moments and friends for Tavin.  Thank you to his teachers and his amazing preschool.  Tavin, I'm so proud of you and all that you've learned and all the ways you've grown up.  You are an amazing kid, Tav.  I love your courage, your heart, your energy and that smile.  I'm excited to have you home this summer, but I know you are raring to go back to preschool (3 days a week next year!!) already.  Congratulations on a great year at preschool, Tav!