Benjamin clings tightly to his soft toy, Sheepie, his small hands trembling. His eyes dart around, taking in the unfamiliar faces and bustling energy. "Mama, I don't want to go," he whispers, his voice barely above the morning breeze. His mother kneels, her face gentle and reassuring as she pulls him into a warm embrace. "You're feeling nervous, sweetie. It's normal to feel that way on your first day," she murmurs, pressing a kiss to his hair.

Benjamin's small footsteps echo as he walks beside his mom, gripping her hand tightly. The classroom door stands open ahead, laughter and chatter spilling out. Inside, Mrs Otty stands with a welcoming smile, her eyes kind behind her glasses. "Hi Ben, welcome! Come meet your new friends," she calls out, gesturing to the circle of children.

Benjamin hesitates, his face tense as he clings to his mom’s skirt. His gaze flickers to the other children—some smiling, some just as anxious as him. Mrs Otty kneels beside him, her tone gentle. "It's okay to feel nervous. Everyone's feeling it today – it's our first day! What made you feel nervous, Ben?" "I don't know everyone... and I don't know the rules," he whispers, his voice wavering.

Mrs Otty nods, her smile never faltering. "We can fix that! Let's introduce ourselves. What's your favorite thing to do?" Benjamin glances around and spots Max, Kavi, Ollie, Jamie, and Henry waving. He summons a small smile. "I like playing with blocks!" Mrs Otty beams, reaching for a tray of colorful blocks. "We have a big block corner! Want to help me set it up?" Ben nods shyly and takes a small stack of blocks from her. As they build, Max sidles up, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "I'm Max. Want to build a castle?"

Benjamin giggles as he and Max create a towering castle. He doesn’t notice his mom slipping away, too caught up in the fun. Mrs Otty calls out, her voice warm. "Time for story time! Find a cozy spot," Benjamin hugs Sheepie close and nestles into a bean bag, a contented sigh escaping his lips.

Mrs Otty[/@ch_3] reads. The children sit in a semi-circle, eyes wide as they listen.] The story is about a brave knight exploring a new land, full of strange sights and sounds. Mrs Otty pauses, looking around. "What do you think the knight felt?" Benjamin raises his hand, a shy smile on his face. "Nervous... but excited!" Mrs Otty nods approvingly. "Exactly! It's okay to feel both. Break time is next, and it’s time to play outside," she announces.

Benjamin runs outside, feeling the sun warm on his face. He climbs the slide, heart pounding—not with fear, but with excitement. "Wheeee!" he shouts as he slides down, his grin wide and genuine. Max waits at the bottom, laughing. "Let's do it again!"

Benjamin[/@ch_1] stands a little taller, his nerves nearly forgotten.] He approaches Mrs Otty, pride shining in his eyes. "I did it! I was nervous, but I'm happy now," he declares. Mrs Otty smiles and places a gentle hand on his shoulder. "You're brave, Ben. Everyone's first day is special. You're part of our class now!"

Benjamin[/@ch_1]'s mother waits at the gate, her face expectant and loving.] She gathers him into a tight hug as soon as he appears. "How was your day?" she asks softly. Benjamin beams up at her, his eyes sparkling. "Good! I made a new friend, played blocks, and slid down the slide!" He grins, the weight of the morning gone. "I'll go back tomorrow," he says, his voice full of pride. His mom smiles, brushing a lock of hair from his forehead. "You're growing, Ben."