For the first time, the children from the developmentally delayed classes were the presenters.

Their teachers were nervous, the students were orderly on the risers, wearing Dr. Seuss hats made from red and white paper.

My son, Cade, was one of the younger students involved and was placed on the front row. 

When I came into the gym, he ran over to me to give me a hug — a couple of times. So, I had to leave and then sneak back in to sit in another location.

Friday morning “Roundup” is a gathering of all the teachers and students. They recite the Pledge of Allegiance and school creed, listen to announcements and sing songs. It’s a good way to end the week and recognize students and classes for their weekly accomplishments.

Each week, a different group of students helps to present the program.

As the students said their names and directed the gathering on what was coming next, it was moving to see their excitement, anticipation and delivery of their speaking parts.

When Cade said his name, his voice was loud and sweet. His language development is still “developing,” but you couldn’t mistake the way he proudly spoke into the microphone.

I smiled and laughed a little, giddy with the excitement of seeing my baby perform in front of a group. Then, for a moment, tears came to my eyes, a flash flood of emotions coming over me.

But I recovered and was able to enjoy this simple — but very important — moment of the day.

Afterward, the teachers were asking questions, “How did they sound? Could you hear them?” and saying, “They did such a good job!”

It was a milestone for the school. It’s not only good for the students who presented, but also for the students in the audience. And good for the teachers. And good for the parents attending.

And good for the community.

These lovely children are a part of the community, and the public display of their talents and dedication is a lesson in how they, too, can contribute to the activities in everyday life.

It was a proud and moving moment for me.

Linda Lynn

llynn@opubco.com

Septemberfest

• When: Sept. 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Where: Governor’s Mansion and Oklahoma History Center (Click here for map)
• What:  A free, fun, family-friendly, and hands-on event. Visitors get free admission to the museum all day long.  The governor and first lady will read stories to children. There also will be dancing, entertainment, puppet shows, inflatables, clowns, face painting and much, much more.
• For a full description and schedule of events, click here.

Pass it on Kids

• When: Sept. 10 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sept. 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Where: Church of the Harvest, located between 33rd and 15th streets off Western Avenue in Edmond.
• What: A consignment sale for fall and winter’s kids’ clothing.  Half-price on select items on Sept. 11.
• For more information, go to www.passitonkids.com

34th annual Western Days

• When:  Sept. 10-11
• Where: Downtown Mustang
• What: A festival including a carnival, rodeo, parade, magic show, music, car show and more.
• For more information, click here or call 376-2758.

103rd annual Cleveland County Free Fair

• When: Now through Sept. 11
• Where: Cleveland County Fairgrounds, E Robinson St., Norman
• What: A fair that has animals, a petting zoo, carnival rides, a midway, celebrity cow milking and much more.
• For more information, click here.

Oktoberfest

• When: Now through Sept. 11
• Where: Choctaw’s Creek Park
• What: German food and goods, live entertainment for all ages, dancing, crafts and activities for kids.  Admission is $3 for age 12 and older. Kids younger than 12 are free.
• For more information, go to www.choctawfestival.org or call 390-8647.

If you know of any other great family-friendly events this weekend or coming up, please post them below or e-mail me. 

Have a great weekend!

-Erica Smith
esmith@opubco.com