[Labhaoise]

Okay not really sure if this is the right place to put this... but I figure it's about a 3 nearly 4 yr old so...
Anyway, the situation is, I have been asked by some friends if I could write a reference for their nearly four year old, for school. She'll be attending in 2010, but they have to start the application process now, to ensure she has a place. Her older sister already goes to the school, so I'm pretty sure that she's guaranteed to get in... but really a reference for a 4year old?!?!
My friends (the parents) think it's really weird too, but still, they like the school and from what I hear its a good school, and I am actually feeling kind of honoured that they asked me to do this.

My question now is, what do I put in the reference? THings like she plays well, shes fun and well behaved etc? Any input would be greatly appreciated, and thanks for making it this far through
Oh yeah, I am really hoping to get it done today or tomorrow, so that they can have it. Thanks again

[twinzplus3]

My husband has to do this all the time as spots in good schools here are competitive. Here is the formula he follows:
a. A positive comment about the child's overall personality--something that is unique about her and/or stands out: good learner, very intellignet, sweet, etc.
b. A positive comment about the child's ability to concentrate or finish a task. (Tenacious, driven, determined, etc.) & an example if you have one or something you've seen.
c. A positive comment about the child's social interaction & an example if you have one.
d. A positive note about the parents interaction and/or involvement with the child--most schools want to know if the parent is going to be involved. But don't talk about discipline. . .think of things like playing at the park, etc.
Don't forget to include the how you know the child and what interaction you've had with her and then a conclusion. My dh's standard conclusion is: it is without hesitation that I would recommend child x to your program. You can call me at blah blah blah if you have any more questions.

HTH

[Labhaoise]

Thankyou soo much Val! I was really stumped. I had started writing it, the first two sentences were, basically I have known her all her life, we go to the same church... not verbatim but thats about it. She's a great kid, I just had no idea how to put that down on paper.
Thanks again!

[Labhaoise]

Just wanted to say thanks again Val! I gave it to the little girls dad and he loved it. He also pretended to wipe a tear away, which made me feel really good.
So if you missed what I'm trying to say......
THANKYOU SO MUCH

[twinzplus3]

I'm not really getting it. Were you expressing gratitude there?

You're most certainly welcome. The first time my spouse got asked to do one we were a little flabergasted. Actually the first mom that ever asked him, asked him if he could write about how well her son concentrated bc she heard that's the what the school was looking for. A concentrating 3 yo? I think I wrote that one on his behlaf!