ATLAS' NEW SCHOOL ADVENTURE

After nine months of the preschool hustle, we’ve made a big transition – Atlas started at a new school! Nothing new about it... It’s been around for 75 years, so I know we’re stepping into something solid, especially with its focus on community, which is huge for us. And while the price tag is still crazy, it fits our family’s budget a little better. Let’s be honest, how are you you raising your kids in this economy? 😝

After a week of “new school,” Atlas agreed to go back on Monday. He still says he likes his old school more though (change is tough, right?), and every morning, I get the adorable, “Mom, can you stay with me for a couple minutes?” But once he’s off playing with friends, he’s totally in his element. One of my favorite moments from his first day? I didn’t have the gate code yet, so I told Atlas, “Watch this—it’s how you make friends.” I asked another parent if he didn’t mind letting us in, and boom, instant connection. A dad dropping off his daughter got us in, and we were off to a great start.

I’m most excited about the sense of community and long-standing traditions this school offers. It’s an academy, which means there’s room for Atlas to grow, build roots, and make memories. I’m looking forward to getting involved, too! Watch out PTA. The environment is definitely more hands-on, with a variety of activities. It’s faith-based, which is new for us, but it’s sparking some big, beautiful conversations at home, and I love that. As a family, we’re embracing it and welcoming everything it brings to our house; even saying “Grace” at family dinner now.

Atlas, on the other hand, is LOVING the activities. In just his first week, he did karate, had a picnic, named three types of apples (Granny Smith is his favorite), and even did a science experiment where he “parted the water” like a mini Moses. Oh his new friend’s name is Moses, they both have Lightening McQueen shoes, Kachow! He started soccer and is signing so much, right now practicing Star Spangled Banner for Homecoming!

I’m feeling good about this change. Sure, school is scary in so many ways right now, but I’m focused on raising a bold, brave, and confident kiddo. If I can do that, I’ll feel a little more relieved sending him off every day, knowing he’s ready to face the world with courage and kindness. Here’s to new beginnings, building community, and watching Atlas take on the world!

XoXo

Britt

PRESCHOOL ADVENTURES WITH ATLAS

Our little adventurer, Atlas, took a giant leap into the world of learning, laughter, and new friendships by staring school this past week. A whole new chapter began and I'll admit it—I'm the one shedding a tear while he's too excited to notice.

From practicing using the potty to engaging in health and wellness activities, Atlas's day was filled with new experiences and discoveries. The daily reports share his adventures, from letter recognition to big movements imitating animals. It warms my heart to see him thriving in this new environment. I love the naptime reports, “Atlas seemed restless during naptime, opting to play with puppets instead.” Hey, who needs naps when there are puppets to play with, right?

Atlas didn't touch their gourmet offerings (typical!), but he happily demolished the snacks I packed. The teriyaki chicken? Yeah, that didn't even make it onto Atlas' radar. Snack game strong!

My fave is the crash course in preschool politeness. "Please pass the crayons, and thank you for the cookies.” Atlas is excited about his grand entrance into the world of preschool. Get this—he asked to go back the very next morning! That's our Atlas, always ready for the next adventure. By the end of the week, Atlas wasn't just attending preschool; he was building a tribe of tiny companions.

Happy he loves school! Enjoy some photo memories below!

XoXo

Britt

HAPPY GRADUATION - SWIMMING INTO LEVEL 3

Our little fish has graduated level 2 before turning 2! After our final swim class of the year we celebrated leveling up.

We started Aqua Tots Swim School beginning of 2022 as a first birthday present. Coming up on a year, we have successfully graduated 2 levels! On to level 3- one on one with the coach. Although I am looking forward to not getting in a highly chlorinated kids pool every week, I am more excited for his independence and trust he will gain with the coach!

You can read our AQUA TOT ATLAS blog sharing why we chose this swim school and some tips and tricks from us here. Mr Atlas Phelps will be practicing all winter and accepting recruits for his summer 23 swim school. Congrats, again, Atlas. Mom and Dad are always so proud of you!

XoXo

Britt

AQUA TOT ATLAS

The earlier you expose your child to swim lessons – and how to be safer in and around the water – the better. For Atlas, we hit the pool as soon as our water was warm enough, following some youtube tutorials, but mostly focusing on trusting the water. For his first birthday, mom and dad gifted him….. Swim Lessons!

Our little Minnow enrolled at our local Aqua Tots Swim School. After a free first lesson, we fell in love with the staff, structure and seeing how much joy our baby boy had after just 1 visit. We signed up for twice a week classes and are the fast track to olympic trials, (jk). At his age, kids are curios, especially near water, which is why it’s such an important time to learn breath control, safely returning to the edge, independent kicking, and more!

It is the fastest thirty minutes and I work out just as much as he does. We learn songs that incorporate water safety, interact with other students and their parents, and develop a bond with our instructor. Swim school, social skills and improving our sleep- its all a win!

If you are thinking about Swim School for you and or your little one I just have 2 pieces of advice:

1. Wear the right bathing suit - I recommend a once piece razor back. Nothing the little one can pull at or down, no strings or zippers.

2. Prepare to nap hard- after class little man is exhausted and ready for a power nap. The struggle is to get home fast enough before falling asleep on the ride. Schedule classes so you can still get nap time in.

I cant wait to report back on Atlas’ Aqua Adventures. Let me know if you are ready for a swim date!

XoXo

Britt