To My Son Before He Starts 3rd Grade

Tomorrow, my son starts third grade. As I look at the little face I brought into this world, I think of my third grade memories and have a couple of helpful tips for my son. 

My third grade memories consist of Mrs. Meyer and her long nails. She used to put riddles on the board and if we guessed them, we got little prizes. Mrs. Meyer would eat almonds at snack time and she is the one who was responsible for the entire class sending me notes when I got my tonsils out.

I watched my classmate, Scott, learn to hold a pencil correctly (after a lot of struggling) and my mom stayed up almost all night so she would have stuff ready and packaged for the bake sale that sent me on one of my most favorite field trips.

What's in store for you, sweet boy? I don't know...and that's what makes this year so much fun. There are some things I want you to remember:

• Walk up to a classmate (even if they aren't in your class) and introduce yourself. You could be that one person who makes their day.
• Eat your lunch. It's brain food and will help you through the rest of your day. Sorry, it's a mom thing.
• Try. In everything try. It's okay if you don't do well or if it's a challenge, just putting a little effort into what you're doing will help you grow.
• Your manners and charm will get you a long way in life.
• Math is inevitable. Learn what you can and then move along. Yes, you will use this in the future - to help your mom.
• If you know the answer to something, help another classmate who may not know the answer. Helping others will make you feel good inside.
• If someone teases you, do your very best to be kind in return. Two wrongs don't make a right. We can continue to talk about this like we have been. Bullying isn't okay and you can be one of the kids who stops it. The act of walking away is a strong power you already posses.
• No matter where the day takes you, you'll always have a loving home where you can relax for the rest of the day.
• It's okay to be smart. In fact, it's pretty cool.
• The rules of interrupting still apply in school. I know it feels like your story or comment can't wait another second before bursting out of your mouth but if you can hold it for just a tad bit longer, you'll have the attention of those you're wanting to get the attention of.
• You make me proud of you every single day. I don't ever want you to forget that.