Let’s be clear: kids are not the issue here. However, they do tend to drain the joy out of what we once knew as a weekend. The transformation is swift upon welcoming children into your life. The weekend is still thought of as a time for excitement, a break from responsibilities, and a chance for fun, just like it used to be; unfortunately, that joy has been redirected to our kids. After navigating parenthood with two little ones and countless weekends in their company, I’ve gathered a few insights on how our weekends have evolved:
1. Your Fun Quotient Has Decreased
Perhaps it’s social media’s fault. After a hectic week of juggling parenting duties, lounging in pajamas while watching Saturday morning cartoons and delaying tooth brushing feels acceptable—until you scroll through Facebook. Everyone else seems to be at Disney World, picking strawberries, or enjoying ice cream, all while I’m still figuring out breakfast. Suddenly, the TV is turned off, and we’re off on an adventure, or at least attempting to get dressed.
2. “Getting Wild” Redefined
As parents, we quickly learn that we must prioritize our children’s needs to maintain our sanity. This realization leads to weekends filled with birthday parties, soccer practices, and playdates. Just when you think you’ll enjoy some quality time, you find yourself stuck at home with an older child proclaiming, “I’m bored,” and their loyal companion demanding “more Caillou.” The focus shifts to exhausting the kids to preserve your own sanity. If you can catch a glimpse of your favorite show without falling asleep, you might even label that as a wild night!
3. “Getting Wasted” Takes on New Meaning
Raising children is no small feat, and weekends used to be a time for relaxation and reflection. I used to savor a drink or two while catching up with friends, leading to laughter and fun, often followed by a long sleep-in session the next day. Now, if I can enjoy an evening with adults without receiving a call about a child’s simultaneous sneeze, pooping incident, and vomit, I consider it a successful night.
4. Weekends Are Just an Extension of the Week
Even before having kids, the common complaint was that weekends were far too short. Once children enter the picture, the concept of a weekend becomes blurred. Not only are you transporting them to various activities, but you also find yourself preparing for the upcoming week. Weekend days are consumed by children’s projects, serving as a huddle for the family to strategize on how to manage the upcoming chaos. The “team captain,” often mom, does her best to keep everyone engaged.
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Summary:
Parenting dramatically transforms weekends, shifting the focus from personal enjoyment to managing children’s needs. Fun times are often replaced with social comparisons, busy schedules, and the realization that weekends are now akin to an extension of the week, filled with preparations for the days ahead. Embracing this new reality can help parents navigate the chaos while finding moments of joy.