Harper Valley PTA

Unbelievably, because the last time I looked she was toddling about demanding repeats of Peppa Pig, our daughter has started secondary school.

Quite the milestone at any time and quite the occasion at the moment.

She's entered her secondary school education at a time of bubbles, masks and social distancing in the corridors. 

Where they're keeping two metres from teachers, hand washing compulsively and not being able to share the exciting back to school stationery with friends.

But despite all this, she is having a wonderful time - new friends, new subjects, new opportunities. She's even enthused about the fairly lengthy walk (hasn't rained yet) and the homework (all very gentle at present).

I do hope this lasts. Both the enthusiasm for learning and the ability to stay at school for at least a decent chunk of time.

But with Covid-19 infection rates on the rise again and other local schools already sending some year groups home, we can only keep our fingers crossed.

This year has been tough on everyone and particularly tough on children. It would be nice if they could return to some sense of normality - even if that normality comes with added homework.

:: Harper Valley PTA by Jeannie C. Riley*

* NB as far as I'm aware, my daughter's school does not have a PTA like the one described in this week's song, but I do like the story.