School

We've made it through the first full week of school! I was most worried about Ethan since he would be experiencing the biggest changes…moving up to middle school, going to school without his brothers, walking to school on his own... But, he has been the happiest of my kids in his new element! He has made friends so quickly, loves the independence of going to a new and older school, and really thrives on the responsibility of walking to and from school all on his own. It is so neat to see him mature and grow. We signed him up for a few sports at school. He will be doing Futsal (indoor soccer) and football (soccer) for the next school term. These are pretty low key school sports teams that practice during and after school and shouldn't take up too much of our free time but still allow him to get to know other kids and stay active. There are 4 terms in the school year and we plan to have him involved in 1 or 2 sports in each term. He may try rugby when its available…

Gavin has been pretty care free about his school changes. It's fun to see him on the school playground jump from one activity to the next, dancing to his own beat. He made friends lickity split and is so easy going. He does not, however, enjoy the learning part of school =) 

Trevor has had the hardest time adjusting to the changes. He had such great friends in his old school and he is a creature of habit. He likes routine, normalcy, and comfort. He braved the first few days of school but did not want to go back the second week. I walked him to his class every day and waited until the bell rang. We gave him something to look forward to each day when he got home. We said a special prayer every day to give him courage, comfort, and peace to get through the day and to make friends and follow the rules. He was a trooper and so brave! His teacher recognized his effort and awarded him a certificate at the school assembly. It really boosted his confidence! 

Parents can go on the campus freely without having to sign in like they have to in the States. So I take them on the campus in the morning and wait for them in the afternoon. I like it. The office staff is so friendly. The campus is hilly, has 4 playgrounds (filled with fun equipment that would be asking for lawsuits in the States), a large field, lots of trees and bushes, a garden for the students to plant and take care of, and a pool….all on top of a hill with the ocean in view.  Many of the students run around with bare feet..this is the kiwi way! My boys still like donning their shoes, but maybe over time they'll want to toss their shoes off and do the same =)