First stage of parenthood: complete

That's it then. My daughter joined her big 'year 5' brother and successfully started school yesterday.  We've safely delivered both children to the point of full time education. Mission accomplished.

It's a small school and she knows half the pupils there already (one of the benefits of having an older brother) so she had lots of happy faces to greet her. Her brother even told me, "I'll look after her, dad".

There's something nice about the idea of my son feeling he has responsibility for my daughter. For nearly five years that's been our job but, it dawned on me, it's not just our job anymore.

That's what I mean about the first and second stage of parenthood. For those first years we've been the centre of her life. But once a child goes to school that changes. Teachers and friends start impinging on your territory.

It's not a rapid process but there is an inevitability to it. She's just started something that will eventually see her - in 13 or 14 years time - gain enough independence to wave us all goodbye as she leaves home or goes off to college. Of course children gain independence from the day they are born. But nothing accelerates it as rapidly as school.

It also means a big change for her parents. It's incredible to think that we've had a little one crawling or running around the place for nearly 10 years. With no more little ones at home Monday to Friday, we have to get used to the biggest change in our lives since our eldest was born. 

I really believe that starting school is the biggest milestone a child has (and I have talked about milestones rather alot!).

Anyway, she's in 'the system' now and we'll always treasure those lovely years - and wonderful memories - of having her ALL to ourselves. And as Single Parent Dad says in his blog it is a hugely emotional time, but it's also a time where parents can feel very proud of both their children and of themsleves.

First stage complete. Roll on stage 2.