Even when you know some bad news might be coming when it actually happens it really sucks

Not that this makes the sting go away either. But take comfort in the fact that he is just starting his school years - I have a friend that pitched the mother of all momma fits and so the school promoted her daughter. She struggled thru the next two years (again barely making it to the next grade) and in the end of 3rd grade she didn't make it unfortunately that is the year that the other kids (the ones her age - her friends - her group) moved to a new wing in the school. She would have been less devistated had Mom let them hold her back in K - then she would have met other kids (the ones she eventually graduated with) and lessen the blow to her self esteem!

Bless your heart! I know this is difficult for you. It would be the same for me. I would react the same way. However, it's true what MH above said about the younger grades and all. Earlier is better...comparatively. It still hurts, though. Big hug for you!!

He's gonna succeed with you as his mama. Period.

(((hugs)))

ach. that's hard. as jen said though ... it's true.

I've been there -
and I can feel it all over again reading this...

I am so so sorry.
And he is so lucky to have you as his advocate.

Please keep what Jen said in the back of your head.
He will grow up.
He will be a successful adult.

You'll see.

I'm so glad the school administration was supportive and helpful. I'm sorry though, Jess, I can only imagine how much you're stinging. Hang in there, girl.

It'll work out, Jess. It's so hard, but the extra time and repetition will help him. It never hurts a boy to be a little older than his classmates. Most of the time it helps. So hang in. This will work out for the best.

I don't have a child in school yet, but one of my biggest fears is seeing my son struggle. He's 22 months old and while I think he's intelligent, I wonder if I'm just biased? I wonder if other kids are farther ahead in development. And then I feel guilty for even thinking that way. I don't know if all mommies go through that...ugh.

I think all moms worry that it's going to be tough for their kids.

Thank you so much for your kind thoughts. Inside me i know it will be okay. I just want him to be happy.

What Jen said. Really. He's ahead of the game with you on his side.

Your one tough cookie and I'm sure your kids are too. He'll come into his own.

that is wonderful the school understands and is willing to help....he will be fine...you are a wonderful mom!

I know it is hard to have your little one have what seems like a setback. But it is really a new chance for him to get the extra help he needs. It is better than floundering along behind the others.

I know you will help him to work hard and to learn. He may NEVER be good at school, but that is okay too. Many really fine people, geniuses, talented folks - couldn't do the school thing very well.

My brother sucked at school his whole life. His dyslexia just made it too hard. He grew up to be an amazing heavy equipment operator - people marvelled at his skills - then to move in to management because he is good with people. He makes more than I, a college grad, ever will. He has 2 lovely daughters, 6 grandkids, a wife who adores him, a big house with a pool and a hobby of making interesting, clever things like knives, letter openers and birdhouses out of discarded materials.

I just had to go on and on about him because I am so tremendously proud of him and think he has a great life. And he never had more than a low-C average.

One of best friends was in Toby's situation. He was held back in grade one and he thanks his parents for allowing that to happen. He remembers that second year of grade one very well and the confidence he was allowed to gain. It was life changing for him. He is an electrical engineer now.