When I first envisioned working from home, my imagination ran wild with possibilities. I pictured myself whipping up batches of cookies and cupcakes for my kids to savor after school. I dreamed of spontaneous outings to the park, splash pads, and beach days. I thought I’d be juggling work while they played quietly in the background all summer long. Spoiler alert: I was totally off base.
My initial months of remote work coincided with summer vacation. What a glorious plan! I was sure I’d spend quality time with my little ones, reduce their screen time, and maybe even indulge in some crafting sessions together. (Oh, the dreams I spun!) But the truth hit me like a ton of bricks. By early August, I was practically counting down the days until school resumed, already plotting for next summer to avoid what I now affectionately refer to as “The Summer of Chaotic Madness.”
And you know what? I don’t feel one ounce of guilt for letting my kids spend their days at our local Boys and Girls Club, surrounded by adults who are paid to engage and inspire them. Here’s why:
No More Constant Food Requests
Last summer, it felt like my entire day revolved around meal preparation. Three meals, two snacks, and dessert—by the end of it, I was so food fatigued that I could hardly stomach anything. This year? Breakfast is cereal, and dinner is whatever doesn’t set off a kitchen heatwave. Easy peasy!
Absence Truly Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
By the end of last summer, I was ready to pull my hair out from the constant chatter about Mario Kart and Minecraft. This summer, I’m treated to delightful tales of dodgeball victories, field trips, and my youngest’s infamous carrot-throwing incident at his big brother. Much more enjoyable!
Crafting and Sports? Not My Thing!
Let’s be real: I’m not the craftiest mom out there. My ideal day involves a hot cup of tea and a good book. My kids are well aware of my lack of crafting enthusiasm, which led to endless delays during our attempts at creative activities last summer. This year, I’m happily leaving those tasks to the professionals.
Reduced Screen Time
I tried my best to limit tablet and TV time last summer, but after two weeks, I waved the white flag. They just weren’t interested in painting or reading. They quickly figured out that asking for snacks could buy them video game time, and I was all too willing to comply. This year, we’ve set boundaries: two hours of screen time after dinner and on weekends. Guilt, begone!
Quality Moments Matter More
Last summer was rife with sibling squabbles and my constant shouting. It got so bad that we needed my partner to come home just to break the tension. This summer, when we take a break from routine, it’s genuinely enjoyable. My mom visited for a few days, and we took the kids on a toy shopping spree and hit up local attractions. We even took a day off for a birthday trip to an amusement park—something last summer could never have accommodated.
Working from home hasn’t unfolded as I once imagined, but honestly, I shouldn’t have expected it to. With kids, plans often go awry! I’m perfectly content to let the experts handle their enrichment while I finally get around to baking those cookies I’ve been dreaming about.
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Summary:
In this article, I share my experience of working from home while my kids attend a summer day program. The reality of juggling work and family life is far from the idyllic scenario I envisioned. I’ve learned to embrace the freedom from constant food preparation, enjoy the absence that brings us closer, and let professionals handle crafts and sports. My children’s screen time is now limited, and our special moments together are more meaningful. Ultimately, I’m learning to adapt to the unexpected twists of parenting.