First Encounters, First Connections

The beginning-of-the-school-year meeting with our students’ parents was a meaningful gathering, filled with surprises and the starting point for building new connections

On 6 October, the beginning-of-the-school-year meeting with the parents of our students took place in the Early Years classrooms. For many, it might have seemed like a simple meeting to share information and reminders that everyone already knows. However, beyond reviewing those essential aspects that contribute to the smooth running of the school, it became a special moment in which their children were the true focus and purpose of the gathering.

For each year group, the teachers organized different activities to help parents keep their children at the heart of the meeting and to understand that their well-being, their future and their happiness were the reasons for coming together. In I3, parents were asked to identify and recognize their child’s smile. In I4, they selected from a range of characteristics and qualities displayed around the classroom those that best described their child and placed them next to his or her photograph. In I5, they were given a box containing what their children treasured most.

In addition, each family received a small gift, a bag of popcorn, symbolising the idea that although all corn kernels are placed in the pan at the same time, they do not all pop at the same moment. Some pop immediately, while others take a little longer. Respecting each child’s developmental pace is essential if we are to accompany them in their growth and learning in a meaningful and authentic way.

We would like to thank all the parents who attended, as it is through these small gestures that daily commitment becomes visible. They remind us that we are not alone and that our children are being guided by the best possible hands on this journey that is only just beginning.