Meryl's Appletree

On the 1st day of school, Meryl eased into the program without any signs of fear or anxiety. Maybe it was because I was present or maybe there were so many new things to distract her. She played with the toys, went around comforting those who were crying, colored the activity worksheet, sang and danced and followed Teacher Salmah's instruction down to her very last word. She was simply adorable (see her on youtube under 'World of Kyle and Meryl').

Meryl happily doing her work

However, in the 2nd week, albeit still excited about school, she showed signs of separation anxiety at the doorsteps just before going into class. She would cry a little and wanted me to carry her. Then when it was time for me to leave, she would wail and reached out for me...a far cry from the 1st week. The good news was that I would linger for a while outside the classroom and after about1 -2 mins, her crying would stop. According to her teacher, she only cries for a short while and then she will participate in the activities. Only periodically when she hears another kid crying will she remember and cry again.

Even then, after each lesson, I would meet her at the gate and there she will be, lined up and smiling ever so sweetly before she runs into my arms.

Meryl walking home with her good friend Kor Kor Jay Jay