Life is an adventure and you choose what your priorities are.
When I look at a school/class or program, the first thing that I evaluate is the instructors/teachers. I stand by what I believe. Exceptional teachers are worth their weight (or wait) in gold! For some children, finding a good compatibility is important (so it's worth taking time to visit a class with your child to observe interactions if possible). Even if a program sounds great, if it's delivered poorly, it won't be effective or interesting. Teachers are not baby sitters, they are important role models and guides. They spend many hours getting to know your children, building their trust and confidence.
We waited 42 hours in line to get the second-last spot at a nature school preschool. I agree it was crazy to wait (especially since it's "only preschool"), but I really do want my daughter to have a chance to learn with some teachers I love and trust. Also, the early years is when we build a foundation about ourself and how we relate to the world and others. A good teacher celebrates discoveries and encourages curiousity. We've met both teachers at the school over the past few years. One through StrongStart and the other through after school programs. If this school was available when my son was a preschooler, we would've lined up for him.
I'm so grateful that my husband was on-side (he thought it was crazy), and pulled 2 overnight shifts out in the cold. He said he did it for me. All he had was a chair, a sleeping bag, a warm jacket and hat the first night. Another dad lent him a lawn chair so that he could recline. It was so kind! The second night, he borrowed the lawn chair again and brought a pillow.
I had the easier part of the wait, sitting in the community centre with snacks, water, my cell phone charger... and on the following day, I packed: lunch, dinner, snacks, water, juice, books, puzzles and a game for my daughter, and my Tula so that she could have her afternoon nap. I forgot my charger, but didn't have as much screen time since I had my daughter with me.
I'm happy and excited we got a spot for our daughter and I'm glad the registration is over.
