Hi John,
I taught preschool for many years as well as operated a Home day care. If it is at all possible, remember your kiddos. They love you and need you and I'm sure are thrilled to have you back. Go in, do your thing, hand parents your phone number if they want to talk and just explain that it has been requested you don't speak of it on company time or on the premises. Your boss is going to be the one looking like a fool in the end. If HR knows she is giving you a hard time about going to appts, they will know that is harrasment and most likely she will be warned and possibly terminated if it continues. If there is no HR, call the Labor Board. I'm sure it will spark GREAT interest.
There is definitely SO much ignorance out there. Kevin has his first PET on the 12th and between me and all of you, because he doesn't read the forums much, I am nervous as heck. This constant yuck in my stomach and really, just on again off again crying fear. Fighting all of that and keeping it private because to all our families, we are done. He's back to work and life is normal. We all know the drill.
Anyway, we are here for you and feel for you. This person sounds as if she has some pretty serious insecurity issues and you are her target to give her power right now. DONT let her have that on you. Just smile and move on if possible! I know the preschool route though, and it can be pretty hard when there is tension in the air. The kids know..... Love them and play!!!!!!
Kathy