Menu Expectations vs. Reality
Let’s face it — you’re still on kitchen duty.
By Jamie Carter
April 6, 2022
When I think of “spring break,” I picture throngs of sunbathers in bright swimsuits, frolicking in the waves with drinks in hand, all while a DJ spins the latest hits. I remember cruising down the highway with friends, windows rolled down, and carefree laughter filling the air. Those days felt like pure freedom — no responsibilities, just fun. But then reality hits: I now have four little ones, and spring break means a multitude of things, but “break” is definitely not one of them.
In fact, spring break with toddlers feels eerily similar to a wild party bus in a tropical destination. Sunburns, chaos, and sleepless nights? Absolutely! Whether you’re off to a theme park or simply trying to keep your kids entertained at home with a lineup of Busy Toddler activities (seriously, dot stickers are a game changer), the reality of spring break is often a far cry from expectations.
For instance:
Expectation: All the kids will proudly wear the adorable gingham swimsuits I ordered ages ago.
Reality: Only two kids can squeeze into those swimsuits; another has sprouted three sizes since winter, and the last is obsessed with Paw Patrol swim trunks from the gas station.
Expectation: The ice painting project will spark their creativity and keep them busy for hours.
Reality: They’re mostly just eating the ice and painting each other instead.
Expectation: I’ll finally dive into that novel with the beachy cover.
Reality: That book will remain unopened.
Expectation: The kids will be hesitant around the pool since they haven’t swum since last summer.
Reality: One just cannonballed into the shallow end, fully clothed.
Expectation: A reprieve from packing lunches will be a relief.
Reality: Everyone is still clamoring for lunch.
Expectation: Mornings will be leisurely without the school rush.
Reality: The kids sense the lack of structure and push for chocolate chips in pancakes and picnics on the floor instead.
Expectation: They’ll embrace boredom, igniting their imaginations.
Reality: They’ll repeatedly ask “how much longer” until we reach our destination or until dinner, in a way that tests every ounce of patience.
Expectation: Anything forgotten can easily be picked up at our destination.
Reality: Your toddler’s beloved Lovie — a once-blue hippo now gray from love — is still lying in your driveway, and it will be waiting for you upon your return.
Expectation: At some point, we’ll capture a family photo.
Reality: You took that one photo, and that’s it.
Expectation: You’ll be eager to head home after a week of chaos.
Reality: As you drive back, the kids squeal with joy, and you’ll find yourself wishing to hold onto this moment forever, with the salty air swirling around you and the little one clutching his plush koala. You’ll feel bittersweet about how quickly childhood and spring break fly by.
Jamie Carter lives in Durham, North Carolina, where she juggles writing and parenting. Her work has been featured in various publications, and in her spare time, she enjoys the beach, a good book, and quality family moments.
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Summary
Spring break takes on a different meaning for parents, often filled with chaos and unexpected challenges rather than relaxation and adventure. With four small children, expectations of a peaceful getaway clash with the reality of sunburns, messy activities, and constant demands. Despite the pandemonium, there are moments of joy and nostalgia that remind parents to cherish the fleeting years of childhood.
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