My 7-Year-Old Daughter Woke Up at 4 A.M. Every Day—When I Discovered What She Did After I Left, I Broke Down in Tears

then on, I walked her to Mrs. Elena’s door before I left for work. I packed her an extra blanket, warm socks, and a little note in her backpack just in case she felt tired later at school. On weekends, I joined them, and soon our quiet little ritual grew into something warm and wonderful.