Back to School

It was a big week last week!  Abby and Reese started their second year at French school, and it's absolutely amazing to witness how far they've come in one year.

Abby entered CP (Cours Preparatoire), which is the equivalent of the 1st grade in the US.  CP is the year French kids learn to read, write and do math, and unlike last year with alternating days of French and English, this year is all in French (with the exception of one hour per week in Dutch and one in English).  It's a big jump for Abby, who isn't fluent yet, although I bet this year will be the turning point.  I'm so proud of her; it's scary stuff for a six year old.

The foundational learning objectives in CP (reading, writing, math) are the same as first grade in US, but there are a lot of curriculum differences.  One of these differences is handwriting requirements.  As the debate rages on in the US about eliminating cursive writing in school, the French remain steadfast in their commitment to a very specific type of cursive.  CP students are even required to come equipped with a fountain/calligraphy pen.  And there's homework. Abby has already received her first set of assignments, which means mom must stay focused and do her own French homework in order to support Abby.  Here we go!  A big test for both us.

Reese entered GS (Grande Section), the equivalent of kindergarten in the US.  Reese has the same teachers Abby had last year (Anne-Marie for English, and Miss Claire for French), so everything is very familiar to him, and to me.  I am kind of bummed that Reese and his best bud, P, were separated this year, as was Reese, especially.  They make each other laugh--deep belly laughs, and have a deep connection that is breathtaking to see.  They'll be fine, I'll be fine . . .  but for now,  sniff sniff.

His classroom is upstairs, and starting this week, parents must drop off at the front door and not escort their kids to the second floor, which Reese thinks is very grown-up and cool.  So cool.

No kidding, Reese was so excited he bounced for an hour the first morning.

 

The GS'ers reunited:

Reese and his bestie, P, on last day of class before summer break:

CP girlfriends:

It was chaotic for a bit; I think we all had the jitters:

Last year there were some tears, but this time she smiled bravely and headed on up.

 

A peek at last year . . . such brave kids.

 After-school activities have also commenced, in full force.  

Both A & R resumed ballet.  Reese's get-up, alone, is enough to make crazy Wednesdays worthwhile.  :-)  Abby joined "Rainbows," which is the British version of Brownies.  She even got to take home the mascot for the week, which she brought with her everywhere.  Reese started judo. I think he was a little taken aback, so we'll see.  The teacher is amazing.  And that's just Monday and Wednesday. 

But we're still hanging onto summer, and UNO is the name of the game!