Encouraging your child to mingle at the Asheville Arts Center.

~Originally posted on The Adventures of Supermom~

Lil O was given a wonderful invitation to be a part of The Jungle Book at the Asheville Arts Center in exchange that I review it on Supermom Reviews. I've even been telling others about it on Kid Friendly Asheville.

I am really thrilled with how it's helping Lil O get out of her comfort zone and meet others. At first she was very shy and didn't want to go. She thought I was making her go to school. She teared up on the first day but I was thankful a teacher saw this and pulled her into the group. She needed someone to do that for her since I was unable to.

After her first class she was all smiles! I knew she would enjoy it once she surrounded herself in it. Parents aren't able to be in the room with them during rehearsal so the children can focus and learn. I totally get that! I take things with me to catch up on while I am waiting in the minivan.

Lil O missed two classes when she was sick with the flu. I had to start over in a sense because she didn't want to go back. She teared up when I made her go but was fine after her first class back! Kids need to be away from us to learn and have their own adventures. We need to encourage our children and give them that extra push. Even if you are pushing her in the room as you tell her you love her and quickly exit the building before she can cling to your leg while screaming. I promise you that you aren't causing her scars that will require therapy!

I needed this push as well. I told Michael this after her first class. I need to be away from Lil O to let her be herself. Let her know she will be fine if I am not in the same room with her. I am always there to get her after class, unless H is there, and I run to her asking about class. She was all smiles yesterday! Her arms tightly around my neck as we walked to the van. She loved class and so proud to tell me that they gave out parts and she was a snake! How exciting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

She is counting down the days until next practice. I am sure I will have to walk her to class and reassure her that I will be there when she gets finished. I know she will be all smiles when class is over asking, "How many days until I come here again?"