Dear Educators,
First off, I want to express my gratitude. This summer has felt never-ending. Picture hearing “I’m bored” on repeat while the thermometer hits 115 degrees, and you’re wading through a sea of damp swimsuits and towels. Just a few days into summer, I realized how underappreciated you all are. Now, since I’m not new to this parenting journey, I’ll be straightforward and share some candid advice.
Here are seven practical tips for engaging with my children:
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Food Preferences and Allergies
Rest assured, my kids have no food allergies or dietary restrictions. Sugar and artificial colors won’t faze them. Feel free to offer whatever snacks you like; they’ll still find a way to fidget and excuse themselves for water breaks or pencil sharpening. It’s as if they transform into desert camels the moment they sit down! -
Home-School Organization
I’m on top of things at the start of the school year—bedtime schedules? Check. Nutritious breakfasts? Check. Creative projects? Absolutely! However, come January, my enthusiasm wanes. By the holiday season, I’m lucky if I can manage a quick breakfast before we dash out the door. So, if you could schedule your big projects early in the year, I would appreciate it. -
Lunch Packing
In the beginning, I send my kids off with balanced lunches, complete with cute motivational notes. Fast forward to post-holiday when they’re lucky to get a PB&J and a fruit snack. My defenses will be low, and I might just toss in a PediaSure from our youngest’s stash because hydration? Who needs it! -
Homework Help
I genuinely try my best. I sign logs and encourage my kids through their reading, but somehow, papers never make it out of their backpacks. I find myself resorting to creative ruses to keep their spirits up as we tackle mountain-high math worksheets. “Home play” will sound like a joke to them, but I assure you, I’m just trying to keep it light-hearted. -
Personal Care
In the first few weeks, my kids will look sharp and coordinated. I’ll have their outfits ready the night before and ensure they’re bathed regularly. But as the season drags on, they’ll be rifling through the laundry pile for clothes. By spring break, I’ll be praying their shoes hold together until summer. -
Picture Days
Let’s be real—I’ll probably forget about spring picture day despite the constant reminders. If I do manage to unpack their backpacks, I’ll be overwhelmed by the chaos of papers, and my child will likely show up in pajamas on picture day. I’ll just have to roll with it. -
Room Parent
I’m not exactly the ideal candidate for room mom. My crafting skills are somewhat limited, and I’m thrilled that store-bought snacks are the norm. Baking? Let’s say I usually end up sending in some sugary treats at the last minute. I’m not the “perfect” mom, but I promise to support you in any way I can.
I’m the mom who cherishes the moments when you let kids be kids. I hope you’ll take time to engage with them beyond the curriculum. They may not recall every math formula, but they’ll remember the lessons learned from your stories and experiences.
As the end of the year approaches and you unwind, I’ll be there with a smile, grateful for the impact you’ve had on my children.
Thank you for everything.