The school note on my fridge tells me that kindergarten orientation starts next week. There are pinafores hanging in the wardrobe and twice-daily conversations about school routines and playground antics.

But there’s still a few months of pre-school left and I know, from experience, that they are tinged with anticipation and hesitation.

Right now we’re in the midst of the countdown. It’s a teary time for all involved. Teary and tantrum-y and trying.

And just because I’ve been here before it doesn’t make it any easier.

Over the past few weeks I’ve found myself wading through my foggy memory in an attempt to recall exactly how I dealt with the fury and the tears. All I can remember is fumbling through unnecessary explanations and resorting, as I usually do, to extra hugs and quiet afternoons.

Perhaps your little one is navigating the very same experience; the next big stage of childhood is upon them and it is equal parts exhilarating and terrifying. They may dance about in their new school uniform one night only to cling to your skirt at pre-school drop-off the next morning.

They’re holding on a little tighter before they’re ready to let go and leap.

Wild tantrums and tears that spring so easily need tissues and comfort and nurturing and love. Hot chocolates and banana bread helps, too.

And for you? I find much solace in Buddhism for Mothers of School Children. You might like The School Series, too.