Chatty (Again)

So, two weeks into the school year and we've already gotten "the talk" about Mia. "She's just too chatty." We are told again this year. "It's a problem." I mistakenly ask if there could be any chance she needs to be challenged more and her teacher responds as if that is the most ridiculous idea ever. "She's not even finishing the work I'm giving her, so I don't think she needs more work." That's not at all what I meant, of course, but I didn't bother to argue with her. "We'll talk with her about it and she'll do better next week." I say. With a look of almost horror on her face, Mrs. Sokol says, "At one point the kids were broken up into partners and I looked over and Mia was actually standing on a chair looking out the window!" "No!" I think to myself, "Not the window! How awful!" I bite my lip and try to think of what she would expect me to say. "Aww...gee. I'm sorry. I'll really work with her on focusing more. I'm on your side. Just let me know what I can do to help."

All weekend we discussed motivation for Mia to pay more attention in class. Respect for the teacher and others. She'll understand assignments better and finish quicker and have more time for reading or writing which she really likes. All of this seems reasonable to Mia, but she still can't see how she could get through the whole day without chatting constantly with her friends. Monday after school I got a report that she had a much improved day as far as listening is concerned. When I asked Mia how math was after listening careful to the directions she responded with amazement, "MUCH easier!" Epiphany.

Helping Mia eat the most enormous caramel apple ever at Nashoba Valley on Sunday

Mia is always ready for a little cuddle with Lennon. He rarely wants a hug from anyone... Sigh.

Mia is the one with crossed arms and a huge yawn while the ball is only steps away from her.

Being silly on her first day of school.