What I Learned At School

Today, we had parent-teacher conferences at school.  And while I feel I have a good sense of who my children are and what their strengths are, I am sometimes amazed when other people, who aren't close to the family, share with me their experiences of dealing with the boys.

For example, Mateo is:

• a helper - he takes the initiative to help those classmates that don't understand or are struggling with a concept, particularly in math and reading;
• willing to tackle new challenges - his PE teacher said that his gregarious nature allows him to be open to trying new things, even if he doesn't know how he'll perform;
• motivated by challenging math problems;
• gives 100% of himself to school, everyday

Santi is:

• a lady's man - I know he's cute and all, but his teacher said that he had to separate two girls who were fighting over who would sit next to him, or something like that.  Nico and I were a bit stunned;
• a leader and the life of the party, in this case, the life of his Pre-K class - it seems some of his classmates "fight" to sit next to him at snack and lunch time;
• strong - his PE teacher commented on how much Santi LOVES to swing himself on those Tarzan ropes at the gym and how amazed he was to see how his strength has grown in the past two months
• making progress in writing his name - something his teacher said in reference to this, however, is what stuck with me and really what prompted me to write this post: "Santiago has a strong pencil grip.  Truly, his personality manifests itself even there!"

And above all, what will stay with me for a long time, is what Santi's teacher described as the dynamics of the brotherly relationship my boys have.  It made me so proud and happy that despite their fighting and jealousy, they love each other so much.  You see, Santi is the teacher's helper when it comes to distributing the nap mats. Nobody can take that duty away from him.  Really!  I think Santi chose this role because he is then able to place HIS mat directly in front of the glass door and see the park.  During Santi's rest time, Mateo's grade comes to play here.  Ms. Glady's explained that Mateo comes to the door and from the outside will put his hand on it, Santi reciprocates and puts his hand over Mateo's. Santi then just watches as his brother plays soccer.  It melts my heart.  (Note: Santi explained to me yesterday that he had a bad day at school.  I asked him why and he said that because he had been dancing around, he was punished and wasn't allowed to rest in his usual spot.  He wasn't able to see his brother at the park and that was the reason for him having a bad day.)