Mikey stands at the edge of the playground, clutching his soft Bluey toy tightly. His eyes dart nervously among the clusters of strangers, uncertain of what lies ahead.
"Mama, I don't want to go," he whispers, voice trembling. His mother kneels beside him, offering a gentle hug.
[@ch_1]'s mom[/@ch_1_d]"You're feeling nervous, sweetie. It's normal to feel that way on your first day."[/@ch_1_d]
Mikey walks slowly, holding his mother’s hand. Inside, children chatter and explore, their faces unfamiliar. Mrs Rogers, with warm eyes and a welcoming smile, greets them.
"Hi Mikey, welcome! Come meet your new friends."
Mikey clings to his mom, his tummy fluttering. Mrs Rogers kneels beside him, her tone gentle and reassuring.
"It's okay to feel nervous. Everyone's feeling it today – it's our first day! What made you feel nervous, Mikey?"
"I don't know anyone... and I don't know the rules."
Mrs Rogers nods, her smile encouraging. She leads Mikey to the block corner, handing him a small stack of blocks.
"We have a big block corner! Want to help me set it up?"
Mikey nods, slowly beginning to build. A boy steps over, eyes bright with curiosity.
Max introduces himself, his voice friendly.
"I'm Max. Want to build a castle?"
Mrs Rogers[/@ch_2]'s lap. The classroom hums with quiet anticipation as children gather close, toys tucked under arms.]
Mikey snuggles up with Bluey, now relaxed among his new friends. Mrs Rogers opens the book, her voice drawing everyone in.
"The story is about a brave knight who explored a new land. What do you think the knight felt?"
"Nervous... but excited!"
Mikey sprints outside, the wind ruffling his hair. He climbs the slide, feeling the sun warm his face, and shouts with joy.
"Wheeee!"
Max laughs beside him, eager to play again.
"Let's do it again!"
Mikey beams with pride, his earlier worries forgotten.
"I did it! I was nervous, but I'm happy now."
Mrs Rogers hugs him gently.
"You're brave, Mikey. Everyone's first day is special. You're part of our class now!"
Mikey[/@ch_1]'s mom waits with open arms, her smile full of pride.]
Mikey runs to her, excitement spilling over as he recounts his day.
"Good! I made friends, played blocks, and slid down the slide!"
[@ch_1]'s mom[/@ch_1_d]"You're growing, Mikey."[/@ch_1_d]
Mikey grins, clutching Bluey, already looking forward to tomorrow.
"I'll go back tomorrow."
