Claudia is outgoing and, dare I say it, a leader. I feel free to use it as that is the word that kept popping up in her parent-teacher report this March in every situation. But she is a benevolent leader (not a dictator) most days - and plays well with all the children in her class, all of whom are six months to a year plus older than she is. (Not great planning on the preschool IMO…but anyway, she did amazing in that class).
It's thanks to having Rhys as a big brother but also to her temperament. She isn't afraid of much (sleeping in the dark and the Big Bad Wolf) and knows how to use her words to communicate her needs.
I wish I could fully explain her courage and perseverance. I will try. For example, if she gets hurt - she is actually more embarrassed at having you see her vulnerable. Don't dare ask her if she is OK. (Unless she is really, really hurt, of course). As far as perseverance, she decides she wants to learn something (ride a bike or monkey bars or swim) - and by golly, she does it!
Her best friends right now are two 5-year-old neighbor girls. She plays make-believe, puzzles, and runs races with them (and usually wins…)
Claudia loves playing with Rhys but it is on much more even-playing field than last year. She is practicing writing her name, likes sports and drawing, but playing "pretend" might be her favorite thing still to do.
Claudia still doesn't wear dresses (much) and hates socks - so much so that when we play Stinky Foot - it is for real. But the great thing about Claudia is she embraces the negative and turns it around -- she is called Stinky Foot - she says loves Stinky Feet and tries to "stink you up." (Sorry Claudia at 16 reading this - but it's true.) She gets a sad face for not sleeping through the night - she tells you she wants the Sad Faces.
It does make for a challenge parenting her - and for getting her not to call out for Mommy snuggles twice a night - but I wouldn't want her any other way.
My darling, loving (well, to Mom right now) powerful daughter - you amaze us and we can't wait to see what you do at 4. xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
