Saying Yes to Independence
Last school year, when Twinkle entered Grade 4, something quietly shifted. It was the year students were finally allowed to go on school field trips without a parent accompanying them. When the notice came home, I felt a mix of pride and worry. Twinkle was excited and confident — she wanted to try going on her own like the older kids. As a mom, I had to pause and ask myself if I was ready, not just her. After a lot of thinking (and a little praying), I said yes, trusting that she was ready for this small but meaningful step toward independence.
Where They Went and What She Experienced
Their field trip was packed with fun and learning. One of the main destinations was Enchanted Kingdom, which felt like a dream come true for kids. I imagined her laughing with friends, lining up for rides, and enjoying the freedom of exploring without me hovering nearby. They also visited Torres Farm Hotel and Resort, a calm and refreshing contrast to the theme park. From the photos shared with me, the wide open spaces, greenery, and farm atmosphere looked like the perfect place for kids to slow down and appreciate nature. There was one more stop that I honestly can’t remember now — mom brain is real — but what stayed with me wasn’t the complete itinerary. It was seeing how comfortable and happy she looked in every picture.
Her best friend Jazz was also there, and Jazz’s parents came along, which gave me extra peace of mind. They kindly took photos and sent them to me throughout the day. Each picture felt like a quiet reassurance — Twinkle smiling, posing confidently, clearly enjoying herself.
What This Field Trip Taught Me as a Mom
When Twinkle came home that afternoon, tired but glowing, she couldn’t stop talking. She shared stories about the bus ride, the food, the rides, and even moments when she felt a little nervous but managed just fine. That’s when it really sank in — the field trip wasn’t just about the places they visited. It was about trust, growth, and learning that she could handle things on her own.
Now that she’s in Grade 5, she recently told me something that made my heart feel full. She said she wants me to go with her on her next field trip. Maybe because she missed me. Maybe because she wants to experience it together this time. Or maybe because growing up doesn’t mean pushing mom away — it just means choosing when to walk alone and when to walk side by side.
This experience reminded me that motherhood is a constant practice of letting go, little by little. From holding their hands, to letting them ride a bus without us, to trusting them with the world beyond our sight. Twinkle’s first field trip without me was one brave step — for her, and for me too.
