Updated: Oct. 21, 2020
Originally Published: June 10, 2016
I can already predict a couple of things will happen as I share my thoughts on sleepovers: 1) I’ll be labeled a terrible parent, with people reminiscing about their own delightful sleepover experiences, and 2) Parents of my kids’ friends will likely panic and decide against letting their kids stay over at my house. (Mission accomplished. Cue the mischievous grin.)
The plea for a sleepover typically surfaces on Saturdays after an exhausting day spent hosting a whirlwind of kids, all while I watch them devour my snacks, use up every pool towel I own, and run in and out of the house without a care for the screen door. But, hey, I’m all about the chaos—until night falls, and then I’m done.
By 10 p.m., my transformation is complete. After I’ve shed my bra, washed off my makeup, and slipped into my well-worn sweatpants from the ‘80s, I morph from the cheerful, organized supermom to “I’m done—leave me alone” mom. If your child stays over during this late-night persona, well, consider yourselves warned.
If my kids manage to catch me off guard and ask for a sleepover before I’m fully settled into my couch potato mode, let it be known that the moment I’m comfortable, I will no longer be monitoring your kids.
“Max can only watch PG-rated movies, can you supervise?” (Nope.) “Lily can’t have dessert after 8.” (Not my problem.) “Ethan has an early game tomorrow. Can you help him get to bed?” (Not happening.)
But here’s the deal: If your kid spends the night at my place, they’ll experience the same kind of sleepover I had as a child—locked in the basement with an abundance of junk food and access to movies that are definitely not age-appropriate. They’ll play games until dawn, and when morning comes, you’ll receive your little zombie back, likely complaining about how tired they are.
One of the absolute worst moments during a sleepover? The kid who wakes up at 2 a.m. missing their mom. There they are, hovering by my bedside in the dark, like a scene from a horror flick. “What’s wrong?” I grumble. “I want to go home.” (Sniffles ensue.) “Sure, buddy. The car keys are on the kitchen counter, just remember to move the seat up and duck if you see a cop.”
But you know what really grinds my gears about sleepovers? The expectation of breakfast the next day. Breakfast? Not my jam. You won’t find me in an apron flipping pancakes while humming a cheerful tune. Just coffee, coffee, coffee is the name of the game. If your child wants a cup of Joe, I’m happy to hand them a mug and point them towards the Keurig.
So, your kid wants to sleep over at my house? Great! Just know that my kids would love a big breakfast when they stay at yours.
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Summary
Sleepovers can be a challenge for parents, especially when you transform from an engaged mom to a weary one by nightfall. Expect chaos, late-night snacks, and kids bouncing back home the next day, perhaps a bit worse for wear. The expectation of breakfast can add to the stress, but coffee is the only requirement in that department.