In an instant, we’ve all transitioned into the role of homeschooling parents. Sure, this isn’t true homeschooling, but here we are, faced with a new reality. I admit, I may have gone too far in crafting a color-coded schedule, which has led some to see me as a parent who isn’t embracing the moment with my kids. Yet, if I neglect structure, that implies I don’t care about their education or future, and I definitely don’t want to be that kind of mom.
The pressure on parents today is unprecedented. Many of us are hearing from fellow moms who, only days into this situation, feel like they are failing. They see others seemingly thriving during quarantine—some are rediscovering the joys of motherhood! Singing, dancing, playing games, and capturing joyful moments on camera. After a wholesome family dinner, they share story time and cozy up with their partners, who are now wholly devoted to family life without their usual distractions. The narrative is clear: who knew that school, sports, and social engagements were just barriers to family happiness?
But let’s take a moment for some honesty. Beneath the perfectly curated posts and the “I’m giving away my child” jokes lies a deeper truth. We’re all navigating this together, experiencing a mix of triumphs and struggles throughout the day. Many of us have children who understand this new routine, alongside others who are less willing to cooperate. We’re creating unforgettable moments together while also grappling with frustration that we wish we could erase. Some days we excel at parenting, while on others, we wonder how a single hour of screen time morphs into three.
As mothers, we put on a brave face each day, exuding confidence and calm even when anxiety is bubbling beneath the surface. We’re trying to make the best of our situation, cherishing moments with our kids, but we also carry worries about jobs, finances, education, and what the future may hold. We want to embrace this slower pace, yet we can’t help but miss the hustle and bustle that once seemed so satisfying. The nagging feeling that we aren’t doing enough is hard to shake as we compare ourselves to those who are seemingly thriving with endless resources and perfectly completed school assignments. And gosh, do we miss our support systems—we had just begun to rely on them, only to have them vanish.
So here’s the truth: it’s perfectly okay if you’re not enjoying every moment of this social distancing. It’s normal for your teenagers to miss their friends or for your family to be indifferent to a game night or puzzle. If you’re working from home and don’t have the time or energy to make everything magical, that’s alright too. And if you’re absolutely loving this time together, wanting to homeschool full time, or if your family feels happier than ever, that’s valid as well. Whether you’re tackling big projects or simply enjoying the quiet, it’s all okay.
Need a break? That’s fine; take a minute, an hour, or even a day. We don’t all need to feel the same to be considered good parents. The pandemic isn’t a contest to determine who loves their children more or who can manage the most structured schedule. It’s not a race to see who can provide the best education or who can relax without guilt.
What this is, is an opportunity. A chance to discover how to love your children in the way they need to be loved, and to find joy in your unique journey of motherhood. It won’t look like your neighbor’s experience, or like the influencer you admire on social media, but that’s perfectly fine.
And if you have a moody teenager or a toddler who seems hell-bent on derailing your plans, remember: five years from now, they won’t remember the hours spent on video games or the times you struggled to balance work. Instead, they’ll recall the highlights—the family dinners, the spontaneous hikes, and the moments of laughter, even if they don’t admit it now. They’ll remember the love you poured into creating a nurturing environment for them, and that’s a significant victory.
So, let’s stop the comparisons, cease the self-criticism, and instead celebrate our resilience as we navigate this unprecedented time. Your children are observing your growth and love; they are lucky to have you. Focus on the small victories, and do more of what brings joy to your parenting experience.
This time is a rare gift, one that we can use to redefine what parental success means for us—not in terms of raising prodigies, but in fostering meaningful relationships with our children, even if it takes time and patience. Let’s leverage this period to weave more joy into our family narratives. Because one day, this challenging phase will be just a memory, but the growth it inspires in us and our families can become a cherished part of our story.
For additional insights on parenting during challenging times, check out this resource on pregnancy and home insemination or explore related content at Home Insemination Kit.
In conclusion, embrace the journey and find your own rhythm.