My little L.A. Toddler-munchkin,

Yesterday was your parent-teacher evaluation at your daycare. More than likely, you won’t remember these years, so I’m going to give you all the deep down and dirty details of what happened.

And, yes, I said evaluation - you’re only 2 1/2 and you’re already being judged. When I was pregnant with you I committed to being an “encouraging and praising” parent, not a pressuring parent. Yet I’ve been so anxious for your evaluation. Do your teachers know what L.A. Daddy and I know? That you’re a like a total super-genius?!

Why, yes. Yes, they do, thankyouverymuch! You received excellent marks on all but two categories. And the teacher remarked that those items aren’t usually mastered until closer to 3 years. So…for posterity… here’s what you’re doing so well the buttons on my blouse are bursting with pride!

- You speak very clearly and aren’t afraid to talk to new people so long as you’re sure they are properly introduced (which is also a trust thing - if a trusted teacher introduces you to a new teacher you’re comfortable, not afraid)

- You walk up and down stairs one foot per step holding the handrail. L.A. Daddy tries to climb three steps all at once and and falls on his face at least fifty percent of the time

- You can hold a crayon, pencil, marker, paintbrush properly and you scribble well; you can draw a circle

- You can identify the common shapes by name

- You know all your colors

- You count to 20, you identify 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 when you see the number written

- You can take your shoes and socks off and put them on again properly (not an underrated activity, trust me!)

- You pretend play very well and playing mommy is lots of fun for you

- You’re aware of your environment and the proper placement of items in your environment - if you see someone left a book on the floor you’ll pick it up and put it on the bookshelf

- You are beginning to notice that people have similarities and differences - we all have hair & skin but it’s not the same texture or color

- You welcome the opportunity to try new foods (currently, barbecue sauce is your favorite condiment)

- You are kind (and aware) when others are sad; you offer comfort when someone is hurt or crying

Yes, you are our little super-genius - the greatest child who ever lived. We welcome the time when you will be President of the World and Greater Neighboring Planets. And I am the proudest mommy ever!