Kindergarten Meeting

Wednesday afternoon I had a meeting with the kindergarten. Uschi accompanied me for translation help and support since Eric was out of town. The girls played on the school's playground while we met with the teachers. The teachers did not inform me what it was about, so I had no idea what to expect. 

Apparently this was the teacher and parent meeting to inform me about how Emmie is developing, but it turned into how they feel she is not ready for school next year based on their observations. After they shared their page and a half of information about Emmie, I interrupted and started in German with my questions about what they discussed and how her development got to this point under their care, but switched to English and had Uschi translate. I felt majority of their observations were negative and they have created these developmental characteristics seen in Emmie since she started in their class. Plus, I informed them of the the situation they neglected at the beginning which is seen now and am upset they are currently not correcting any of things they mentioned. They did not appreciate any of this from me based on their facial expressions and rebuttal tone. Plus, it was disappointing they would not have any learning plan next year for Emmie even though they said she is advanced for a four year old as they feel a child learns through playing. They were surprised by my response when they asked if Emmie had already seen the doctor and I told them the doctor approved her to attend school next year.  Her current teachers said they could speak with the possible teacher next year, but Uschi immediately jumped in with her business German tone and informed them not too. She told them firmly how that conversation was to be between the school and the parents, not them. As the meeting concluded, I was surprised they still asked me if they should still be treating Emmie as if she was going to school in the fall. Instantly I replied with a yes, especially now as I see her teachers do not understand how I feel this age is capable of more than just playing all week and they have yet to demonstrate a controlled learning environment.

Leaving the meeting, I was filled with numerous negative emotions. Uschi quickly reassured me the meeting was a typical German meeting where there is little positive information given and for me not to get upset over it. It is now obvious they are babysitters, which frustrates me even more because I know how much fun children have learning through songs, games, and activities at this stage. I am happy Emmie has made a few good girlfriends and is learning German while attending kindergarten. I am thankful Uschi accompanied me because she was able to support my thoughts and share with me that Emmie is a precious girl who is better than the the individual her teachers observe and commented about this afternoon.

On our walk back home, we asked Emmie about a few of the things the teachers discussed. She happily told us about about how she does participate when asked and the fun she is having in kindergarten with the girls.  She also informed us how the boys disrupt the circle time and told us particularly those who are not good listeners when it is time to be quiet. After this, I think Emmie will be okay with the school plan God has for her. We still have to meet with the elementary school with regards to Emmie attending, but we think that will occur after she attends Kennenlerntage- a few hours in the classroom for those who will be attending school next year.

Bandit provided much needed laughter after the meeting for us. His bird gift from Uschi had him jumping and frolicking all around the backyard. It was hilarious watching him throw the vulture style bird up in the air by its long throat and catch it again over and over.