Abigail gazes up at the towering entrance, her eyes wide and filled with uncertainty. She squeezes Bushie tightly, seeking comfort as the world feels too big. Her mother kneels beside her, offering a gentle, reassuring hug.
"Mama, I don't want to go,"
"You're feeling nervous, sweetie. It's normal to feel that way on your first day."
Abigail peeks inside, her heart pounding as she surveys the unfamiliar room. A kindly woman with a gentle smile, Mrs. Smith, greets them at the door.
Mrs. Smith, Teacher
"Hi Abigail, welcome! Come meet your new friends."
Mrs. Smith bends down, her voice soft and calm, as she tries to ease Abigail’s nerves.
"It's okay to feel nervous. Everyone's feeling it today – it's our first day! What made you feel nervous, Abigail?"
"I don't know anyone... and I don't know the rules," Abigail whispers, her voice barely audible.
"We can fix that! Let's introduce ourselves. What's your favorite thing to do?"
"I like drawing flowers!" Abigail replies, her eyes lighting up for a moment.
As Abigail mixes colors, a girl with bright braids smiles at her.
Sofia, Classmate
"I'm Sofia. Want to paint a garden together?"
"Yes, I'd like that," Abigail answers, her voice steadier.
Abigail settles onto a beanbag, Bushie snuggled close, her nerves fading as she listens to Mrs. Smith’s voice.
"Time for story time! Find a cozy spot,"
"What do you think the explorer felt?"
"Nervous... but excited!" Abigail says, raising her hand confidently.
"Break time is next – want to play outside?"
"Let’s go to the jungle gym!" Sofia calls, grabbing Abigail’s hand as they dash toward the slide.
"Wheeee!"
"Let's do it again!" Sofia laughs, and the two girls join the others in playful games.
"I did it! I was nervous, but I'm happy now," she exclaims.
"You're brave, Abigail. Everyone's first day is special. You're part of our class now!" Mrs. Smith replies, her eyes twinkling.
"How was your day?"
"Good! I made friends, painted flowers, and slid down the slide!"
"I'll go back tomorrow."
"You're growing, Abby-Noo," her mom says, smiling warmly.
