Dear preschool teachers,

There’s just no other way to say this—

I’m going to miss you so much.

You are the first adults outside of our family to spend your days with my children, and watching your relationships grow and develop this year has been the most bittersweet privilege.

I’m going to miss the bright smiles that light up your faces every time my kids come bounding toward you on good days, and how tenderly you hold their little hands and guide them away from me on the tough ones.

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I’m going to miss the way you intently listen to the most elaborate, hair-brained stories and crazy explanations of things, and always have the most perfect responses.

I’m going to miss the handmade crafts they’re always so proud of, that I know are the products of your saintly patience, attention, and help.

I’m going to miss watching the hilarious songs, games, and dances you teach them.

I’m going to miss how you pull them into the most warm, comforting hugs any time they cry, or get hurt, or just need to be held.

I’m going to miss all the special events and holidays you fill with magic and joy.

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I’m going to miss the way you show up each and every day with the same energy, enthusiasm, and passion for nurturing small humans.

I’m going to miss how you never forget the details—no matter how small or insignificant.

I’m going to miss your consistent, stable presence in their lives through the uncertainty of so many hard and scary times.

I’m going to miss how much you genuinely care about them, how you see the same amazing qualities in them that I do.

I’m going to miss rolling down the backseat window so you can wave goodbye every single afternoon when I pick them up.

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I’m going to miss hearing them talk nonstop on the drive home about all the wonderful things they did.

I’m going to miss your texts letting me know that they had such a great day, or that you noticed them being kind to a classmate, or that they’re mastering a new skill.

I’m going to miss knowing they’re in the absolute best hands while they’re away from me.

That they are safe, that they are learning so much, and that they are so, so loved.

Dear preschool teachers,

I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done this year, and my heart is beyond full.

You’ve changed my children’s lives for the better,

And you’ve changed mine.

Originally published on the author’s Facebook page