Summer can feel endless, especially when you have kids. Honestly, why isn’t school a year-round affair?
For the last couple of weeks, I’ve been attempting to work from home while my 5-year-old and 6-month-old keep creating mayhem behind me. (Not all the chaos applies to both, thankfully.) We’ve taken some trips, which are far from relaxing with little ones in tow, and we’ve pondered the camp dilemma for some much-needed respite, though that comes with its own set of challenges.
A summer devoid of structure—without camp or school—is tough on both kids and parents, particularly those who are trying to get a few things done. It’s nearly impossible to accomplish anything when you have tiny feet tugging at your legs, whether it’s bathroom breaks, making calls, grabbing a bite, or even just a moment alone to breathe.
Kids can be a handful, and bored kids are an even bigger challenge. Why aren’t teachers earning more for what they do?
Keeping a 5-year-old entertained is no easy feat, especially in ways that don’t leave you feeling guilty (like starting a Marvel movie marathon that stretches on for days—seriously, there are so many now) or break the bank (hello, summer camp costs). I genuinely don’t understand how teachers manage to do it all. And honestly, I find myself wishing they were right here with me.
After a week in this whirlwind, you can’t help but gain a newfound respect for your child’s teachers—and that’s putting it lightly. I’m prepared to craft a sculpture from cheese for my son’s next teacher when I drop him off this fall. I’d even eat that cheesy creation if she asked, just to have my kid in her capable hands for eight hours a day for the upcoming school year.
We all know educators, whether from our own school days or through friends and family. I have a sister named Lily who teaches, and even though she’s incredibly patient, I often wonder how she manages to inspire and educate a classroom full of children when I can barely keep my own in check on a good day.
Teachers are truly remarkable individuals. I might feel this way even if they simply supervised my kids while they watched TV for 180 days a year, but thankfully, that’s not their role; they engage in so much more.
In their early years, they help raise our children, keeping a watchful eye, playing, and reading to them. As kids grow, they become mentors, imparting knowledge and social skills while encouraging and guiding them. They do it all.
Of course, not every teacher is perfect—some can be indifferent or disillusioned. But those types exist in every job. We’ve all had that one special teacher who left an impact, one we remember fondly for their encouragement or for setting us on a positive path. Every educator deserves recognition—even those who may seem bored or cynical.
If you prefer to homeschool your children, that’s your choice. But I’m more than happy to entrust my kids to those who have, for some inexplicable reason, chosen to dedicate their lives to nurturing, teaching, and even occasionally yelling at children.
Better them than me. And for that, I’m grateful.
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Summary
The challenges of summer with young kids can be overwhelming, leading to immense appreciation for teachers who manage to educate and care for children daily. This article reflects on the vital role teachers play in shaping young lives and offers resources for those interested in exploring home insemination options.