A Letter To My Daycare

I started this post when I was in the hospital the second time with Wyatt when he was 9 days old. I was feeling really upset about not being around for Mia, and the thought of how she was still in her routine at daycare helped get me through. I knew she was someplace that she was cared for and having fun. Sadly, the post never got finished, but I figured it was high and time to do that because there are some wonderful ladies out there that need to know how much our family appreciates them!

To Mia’s Daycare Teachers,

Let me begin by saying how much I LOVE my daughter. Watching her learn and grow amazes me. It makes me appreciate all those little moments we have in life together. I get to see the beauty of God’s creation for the first time all over again through her eyes. Every day I wonder how I am so lucky to have the opportunity to raise this beautiful little girl and be her mommy.

However, I also love my job as a middle school teacher. I go to work every day and attempt to make a difference in 50 other kids’ lives. Not only do I try to open minds to the wonders of outer space, physics, and algebra, I try to teach responsibility, and compassion. My job makes me feel like my reach in this world is just a little big bigger than the edge of my yard.

Sadly, I cannot be in both of these roles at the same time, even as much as I want to. That is where you come in. Mia goes to daycare with you when I go to work. I am so thankful that Mia has a safe, loving place to go during the day. Without you, I would be unable to focus and concentrate at work, worrying how Mia’s day was going. I very possibly would not be working at all.

I can only imagine how difficult taking care of 10 one-year-olds can be. Surely there are times your patience and love are spread thin, but you keep going. It is clear that you appreciate my child almost as much as I do. And not only that, you appreciate every child in your care! I go to work worry free, knowing if Mia falls and hurts herself, you will be there to pick her up and give her a kiss. If she hits, she will be reprimanded, and when she learns and discovers something new, you’ll be there to cheer her on.

Yes, it is my job to raise my child, but I couldn’t do it without you. Thank you for being there when I cannot. Not only do you make sure she makes it through her day safely, you open her eyes to the world around her. I am constantly amazed at all the things she knows and I know you are a major part of her education. Songs, manners, colors, numbers, and letters are taught to her through play every single day. Some days I am convinced you are miracle workers.

So, just know that our family appreciates everything you do for our daughter. On those days that you are at your wits end and feel exhausted, just remember that! (Also know we are incredibly sorry for whatever our child may have or have not done to cause those feelings!) We know Mia loves to see you and her friends during the week. We hope that when our son starts, he will love you just as much!