school-time

Well, these are not great pictures and this post may only interest the grandparents, but being the still relatively-new parent that I am, I of course feel the need to post about it...

We were shocked a few weeks back to discover our new local mall was offering gymboree-type classes for babies and toddlers. The place was sparkling clean. I mean, one day I went and they were actually cleaning the balls with bleach water if you can believe it. Plus, the teachers have VEEERY standard asianese (hard to come by over here). So we went for a trial visit, took the plunge and bought the 12-class package to get Grace and Mom a little more socialization and to hopefully let Grace pick up more of the local language.

After our first 2 classes, I wondered what we had done because Grace was very clingy and didn't want to participate. But, by the third class she was getting into the routine and started enjoying herself.

So now, when we go:

Step 1: We take off our shoes and the teachers give the kiddos special skid-proof shoes so no one hurts themselves with all the running around they're going to do.

Step 2: Decide which of the fun toys to play with before the hour-long class starts.

Step 3: Grace runs into the classroom and sits on her mat right away because she's so anxious for class to begin.
Step 4: Sing the welcome song, take roll, shake hands with the teacher, sing songs, read stories, learn about stars or animals or body parts or whatever fun curriculum the teachers have in store. (Here, Grace is still doing the motions to the welcome song.)
And of course, be sure to sway your hips and dance.
Step 5: If Daddy is in town and doesn't have class of his own, join him for lunch.

(Angela, if you're reading today, HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Love you, sister!!!)