Building Social Intelligence

Lately, I've begun to revise my opinion that Beth is an introvert who can only rarely be enticed out of her shell.

She has grown so much as a person after 1.5 years at school.

This year, she has struck up friendships with boys and girls she didn't know last year. She is even on Hi terms with several Grade Preps. Interestingly, she has connected with a wide variety of personalities. Her friends range from extroverts and athletic types to those who are even shyer and quieter than she is.

Tomorrow, she is going over to K's place for a play date.

I always thought K hung out exclusively with two other girls from the same class, but according to K's mom, K and Beth have recently become friends and K actually asked her mom if Beth could come to play. Wow.

Watching Beth march up excitedly to K with notepad and pen, all ready to write down K's address, K's mom turned to me and confided, "Look at them; they're only in Grade 1 and they're already organizing their social lives!"

I have to admit I struggle to accept that once kids start school, the floodgates to individuality are flung wide open and can never again be shut. It's just a matter of time before the little ones are off on their own exciting life journeys and we as parents can only stand by and watch. If asked or needed, we can offer our views and encouragement, but we can no longer rely on our views being treated with the same acceptance and respect as when they were little and dependent.