Ah, the start of the preschool year! I’ve spent my morning labeling lunch boxes, signing forms, and hunting down toddler shoes that actually fit—classic signs that chaos is about to ensue. As the back-to-school prep ramps up, I can’t help but feel a bit twitchy about the mountain of obligations coming my way. Between Room Mom duties, holiday party planning, staff breakfasts, and class donations, the pressure is on—and I’m not having it.
Last year was a real eye-opener; I was the worst at gifting teachers. Who knew you were supposed to bring gifts on Valentine’s Day? But as I started to feel those familiar butterflies, I had a caffeine-fueled revelation. This year, I’m taking a stand against the preschool madness. I’m determined to keep preschool from morphing into another overwhelming to-do list. While I truly cherish seeing my son learn and grow, I refuse to put undue pressure on either of us—after all, it’s just preschool! So here’s what I’m saying “no” to this year:
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Back-to-School Teacher Gifts
I learned my lesson last year—I’m all for gifting teachers on holidays, but a “Welcome Back” gift? Not happening. We haven’t even kicked off the school year! I’ll promise to bring a Target gift card when my kid starts potty training and will do my best to remember teachers’ birthdays, but back-to-school gifts are just too much for me right now. I’ll leave that to the other moms who thrive on finding the perfect trinket to say, “Please don’t let my kid be a little monster this year.” -
Keeping Every Piece of Art
Oh, the art projects! My son loves creating masterpieces, and we all go wild over them. But what happens after the initial excitement? Do I really need to save every scribble? This year, I’m making a pact to quietly toss some of that preschool art. Of course, I’ll keep the gems (cotton ball sheep are a must), but a plain coloring page? Sorry, not this year. -
Gourmet Lunches
I had a peek into another mom’s lunchbox last year, and it was like a mini culinary show. Sushi sandwiches? Really? I spent way too much time crafting elaborate lunches that my son barely touched. This year, I’m opting for the classic combo of Goldfish, mini muffins, and raisins. Simple, easy, and most importantly—edible! -
Attending Carnival Day (on a Saturday)
Dear School, I adore you, but organizing a family outing to the carnival on a Saturday is just not feasible. I can think of a million better ways to spend that day than chasing my kid around a parking lot full of games that require coordination (which he lacks) and long lines. Can we skip it and just celebrate fall at home with a hay bale and a pumpkin from the grocery store? -
Theme Days of Any Kind
If it involves finding a special outfit, packing a unique snack, crafting goodie bags, or any sort of “homework,” count us out. My son is 2; he’s in it for the playground, not for “celebrate our home state week.” -
Parent Mass Email Chains
While I want to stay informed about what’s happening in class, I have zero interest in buying Tupperware or leggings just because our kids are in the same preschool. I’m already bombarded with ads from friends on social media, so I’ll be happily deleting those mass emails without a second thought.
Cheers to the new school year! I look forward to seeing you around—just not at Carnival Day, holiday party prep, or your candle party.
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In summary, this year, I’m setting boundaries and prioritizing simplicity in the preschool chaos. It’s all about enjoying the experience without the unnecessary stress.