If we're being honest, kindergarten is one of the best years of our lives. We start to learn how to make friends, what is not socially acceptable, and of course, the alphabet. On that first day of school, your mom might have walked you to the bus stop, drove you to school, or even walked with you through the hallways to get to your class. You may have been willing to go, ready even, to step out into the real world. What you probably didn't realize was that not only would you learn your ABCs, how to tie your shoes, and how to walk in a line, but you would also learn the most substantial life lessons, without even realizing it.

1. Naps Are Essential

This is one you definitely don't realize in kindergarten. Your teacher tells you to lay down, and shut your eyes, but really you just whisper to your best friend the whole time.

2. Snacks Are Also Essential

It may have only been pretzels, grapes, and cool-aid, but you didn't realize how much those snacks actually got you, and the teacher, through the day.

3. Be Selective About The Love Of Your Life

"When you love a boy make sure his name doesn't have curvy letters in it or you're going to struggle with the ultimate act of love: spelling his name out in Lincoln Logs." *

4. Don't Run With Scissors

"When life hands you scissors, cut straight through your obstacle course. Don't flip it around to the other end just because the start was too difficult. Don't give up, just keep going. Don't lose hope." *

And don't forget that it is always necessary to cut off what you don't need; this includes the edges on those worksheets, and also people.

5. Always Wash Your Hands

Please.

6. It Actually Isn't Necessary To Color Inside Of The Lines

From the very start, people are going to tell you that the only way to make something pretty is to color inside of the lines. But that isn't always the case. The most beautiful things are made from doing things differently, and coloring outside of the lines.

7. Always Ask Nicely

"Please and thank you."

8. Clean Up After Yourself

No one wants to clean up your mess whether you're in kindergarten, or an adult.

9. Boys Are Mean

"He picks on you because he likes you."

"He chases you around the playground because he likes you."

No matter what the reason is, boys are just mean.

10. "Forever" Doesn't Always Mean Forever

Remember that girl who gave you a BFF bracelet but the next day she wanted it back because she had a new best friend? But then you found your real best friend, and one day you realized that the first girl taught you to choose your best friend, and who you trust, wisely.

11. Hold Hands While Crossing The Street

But really, always hold hands. Life is so much easier when you have someone by your side.

*Quotes by Gabriele Bennett.