This year was just another emotional rollercoaster on the first day of primary school with the little ones, some crying, walking with tears into the classroom, clutching their oversized backpacks.
For others, it was a scene from a comedy show, running after their parents like tiny marathon champions, not wanting to be away from them or yearning for a final embrace, while others bravely waved goodbye and we understand this because we do not expect them eagerly charge off to school at 6 years old and spend 5 hours or more there every day.
The below video features a symphony of sniffles and giggles filling the school entrance as teachers and parents gently accompanied the young students inside where there were a couple of dramatic moments when one or two students ran away and chased their parents to the gate.
Grade R scenes today 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/ZzsAIch3R4
— m a s h è s h a 💨 (@_mashesha) January 15, 2025
These Grade R videos kill me 😂 pic.twitter.com/DDjb9uOTYv
— m a s h è s h a 💨 (@_mashesha) January 16, 2025
The X (formerly Twitter) users joined in on the fun as they found these videos shared by the users hilarious.
This are the kids who didn’t go to crèche 😅😂🤣
— 🕹Menzi🇿🇦 (@manzigua) January 15, 2025
Why am I not surprised that it’s boys crying ?🤣😂🤣😂🤣… Girls rock 🥰
— Treavona (@Treavona) January 15, 2025
At the end of the day, these grade R learners always become excited as the day continues, and soon they are too occupied with their games and new friends to even think about their early morning tears. Although the first day of Grade R was filled with a range of emotions, it is a day that our little ones, the future of our country and their parents will never forget.
Also see: ‘Teachers should be paid as much as doctors’ – Mmusi Maimane sparks heated online debate