preschool days

it's interesting that i spent so many years being trained as a clinical social worker, and how much i incorporate those techniques into our everyday interactions. you started preschool several weeks ago and had difficulty at first, more being away from me for such an extended period of time twice a week. you eventually asked me to pretend that our roles reversed so that you could be the mom-in-charge instead of the preschooler-having-to-attend-preschool. and not only did we role play once, but we do this several times a week (sometimes even several times a day) at your request. you are a social worker's dream come true - a willing participant requesting a role play - that is something that never happens in the real world! here's a little glimpse into one of our role plays...

Me: But Mommmmm, I don't want to go to preschool. I want to stay home with youuuuuu.
You: I know, I know. But you have to go to preschool. I'll pick you up later and we'll go home and I'll give you some gum. Bye! Okay, now I'm Caitlin.
Me: My mommy wants me to play at preschool. What's your name?
You: I'm Caitlin and my mommy takes me to preschool too.
Me: What are you playing with?
You: ummmm, some donkeys (these "donkeys" are actually "my little ponies")...
Now I'm mommy again. I'm Back!!! (with arms wide open) You can have some gum now.
You're all finished with preschool.

I think this is your way of processing your separation anxiety from me while going to preschool. in fact, I could tell how torn you were those first few days when I picked you up and asked you about your experience. you replied, "I like preschool. I don't want to go back."