Gregory has learned to let us know whenever his body feels any degree off of the usual so we can coach him through the experience. Yesterday on his way to school (2nd day) he said his tummy felt funny wearing the shirt (a short sleeve white button down collared shirt). I explained all the other boys would be wearing them – it was just a new experience.
Today he wore not only the shirt but the pants (I hemmed and took them in this morning). Again he said his tummy felt a bit off. When he got to school and saw all the other little boys wearing the same pants and shirt, his tummy did not feel as off anymore. While the clothes were a bit uncomfortable compared to what he is used to wearing, having everyone wear the same thing allows uniformity!
I remember changing schools a year before school uniforms become mandatory – as a 13 year old it was a huge WHEW! When Gregory was in Montessori and had to wear a uniform, it was nice as a mom because I did not have to think about what he was going to wear – and when he was old enough to help out, what was expected was consistent. Today I observed that having all the kids in similar outfits allows them all to belong and no one stands out.
To jump off of yesterday’s observations about preferences – while Gregory may prefer his regular clothes to wear to school – this would make him stand out as an individual. Wearing a uniform allows him to be part of the group – not necessarily conformity, to avoid differentiating or highlighting any one person’s preferences. Each child is who they are not what they wear.
My thoughts have certainly changed over the years!
Does this mean I matured??
