The summer stretches on interminably. When you add kids into the mix, it feels even longer. Why don’t we have school all year round?
For the past two weeks, I’ve been working from home while my 5-year-old and 6-month-old engage in chaotic antics behind me. (Not all of these activities apply to both children.) We’ve taken some trips, which can be quite the challenge with little ones, and we’ve debated the camp dilemma to gain some relief, but that comes with its own set of complications.
The absence of structure during a summer without camp or school is a struggle for both kids and parents, particularly those who need to accomplish tasks now and then. It’s nearly impossible to get any work done with children clinging to your legs, including basic activities like using the bathroom or making phone calls. Sometimes, it feels like the only escape is retreating to a corner to shed a few tears.
Kids are no easy task, but bored kids are even tougher. Why isn’t there more recognition for teachers’ efforts?
Keeping a 5-year-old entertained is no small feat, especially in ways that don’t either make you feel guilty (like binge-watching Marvel movies for days on end) or break the bank (hello, expensive summer camps). I can’t fathom how educators manage their classrooms, and I desperately wish they were doing just that right now.
After a week of navigating this chaos, I have newfound respect for my children’s teachers — and that’s an understatement. I might even craft my son’s next teacher a cheese sculpture as a token of appreciation when I drop him off for school this fall. If she asks, I’d gladly eat it right there, as long as she takes my child off my hands for eight hours a day for the next nine months.
We all have some connection to teachers, whether it’s from our own school days or through friends and family. I have a cousin who teaches, and even though he’s quite patient, I often wonder how he manages the daily demands of not just caring for but actively educating and inspiring other people’s kids. It’s as if they’ve been blessed with superhuman patience, because I struggle with my own kids even on the best days.
Educators are the true superheroes. To be fair, I’d feel this way even if they simply supervised my kids while they watched TV for 180 days a year — as long as it meant I got a break. But thankfully, they do so much more.
When our children are young, they essentially help raise them. They watch over them, play with them, and read to them. As children grow, teachers mentor and guide them, teaching everything from academic skills to social interactions. They encourage, discipline, and nurture. They do it all.
Sure, some teachers may not be great. A few may feel jaded or cranky, but you find that in every profession. It’s impressive that more of them don’t feel that way. We all remember a special teacher who made an impact, someone who encouraged us or helped shape our paths. Every single teacher deserves acknowledgment — even those who seem indifferent.
If you prefer homeschooling, that’s perfectly fine. But I’m grateful to hand my kids over to individuals who have chosen to dedicate their lives to educating and caring for children.
Thank goodness for teachers!
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Summary:
This article highlights the challenges of parenting during the long summer months and expresses gratitude for teachers who dedicate their lives to educating children. The author shares personal experiences of working from home while managing young kids, emphasizing the vital role educators play in supporting both children and parents.