The Piñata Process

This month Roo’s class has been studying Spain, and Friday the unit will conclude with a fiesta to celebrate. The teachers sent a notice communicating the day’s planned activities, which will include the breaking of a piñata. Most children relish in the excitement of swinging a big stick at a hanging object. Roo doesn’t. We’ve been to several parties with piñatas and it’s always the same, he wants to leave the room. The lure of candy isn’t strong enough for him to participate. I can’t blame him. He’s smart enough to know a toddler or preschooler with a big stick can be dangerous. And, I remember the view at one party of either Diego or Dora hanging by their neck, the torso already obliterated, only the precious head with the candy remained. Gruesome? Yes. So, as I’m typing an email to forewarn his teachers, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the silliness of my words explaining Roo‘s fear of the “piñata process“. I didn’t suggest that he be asked to leave the room, but rather given adequate notice of the event. This way he can decide for himself. It may be a good opportunity for him to tackle his fear. He may not want to pass up the chance to “be tough” with the other boys, since that seems to be a topic of conversation these days. Stay tuned, we’ll find out on Friday!