THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL-CANADIAN STYLE

After the Labour Day Weekend, the first Tuesday is the first day of school for children in Ontario. Kindergarten children usually have a staggered start even though many have attended Day Care so are used to school routines. The older grades will be given a schedule of activities and what to write in their agendas. Parents are bracing for the new Fall life- making lunches again, lessons and time for homework. School with its subjects and discipline. Children needing to curb their energy to sit and learn. Two of my grandsons are beginning Grade 1 today. A difficult transition for most children. A whole new routine from Kindergarten. Recess is always welcome so children can run around. Some children are walked or driven to school while others are taking the bus for the first time. Seeing old friends and having to make new ones. The teacher- do you like your teacher! Very important to like the teacher as it can make or break a school year. The teacher has to like his/her students. Learning to adjust to many different personalities can be challenging. Regardless of diversity the rules and laws are the same for everyone. Thus fair play can be ensured! Treating others with respect and dignity. English spoken in the classroom so all can learn. Unless of course, it is French Immersion! There are private schools too. Children spend a major part of their lives in school for 10 months of the year. Letting it be a time to learn with fun and knowledge is good. We want our children to want to go to school with a skip in their step. Being on top of any concerns is the parents' ongoing job. So here's to all those returning to school today. Enjoy, learn, as you will be the next generation shaping this great country!