As the school bell rings and kids head back to class, moms are gearing up for another busy year. After 13 years of watching my kids navigate the school system, I’ve gathered some wisdom on what moms should definitely say “no” to during the school year. Trust me, you deserve it!
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Gossip Central
Let’s put an end to the chatter, shall we? We’re all adults here, so at those PTA meetings, can we agree to skip the gossip about who’s who and what’s what? I’m there for the coffee and some real conversation—not the latest round of “who’s messing up.” Spare me the drama; I’ve got enough of that from my kids. -
Doing Your Child’s Homework
Let’s be real: that “homemade” project your kid submitted? Yeah, we all know it wasn’t really them. And no more excuses about missing homework because of that T-ball game that went into extra innings. It’s crucial for kids to take responsibility for their own work—even if it means facing a grade they don’t like. They’ll learn more from the struggle than from your help. -
Fancy Lunches
If your kids are fed, you’re winning. Seriously. A sandwich shaped like a cartoon character is going to get devoured just as quickly as a classic PB&J. I promise, nobody is judging those Lunchables you might throw into the mix. Surviving the lunchbox wars is what really counts. -
Overcommitting as the Super Volunteer
Let’s face it, that ship has sailed! Many of us have graduated to the “Been There, Done That” club in the school parent scene. We’re all for letting the younger crowd step up while we focus on our teenagers who are currently draining our energy. It’s okay to say “no” to volunteering; your mental health comes first! -
Pointing Fingers at Teachers
Stop the blame game! Unless you’re ready to volunteer in the classroom, it’s unfair to criticize teachers who are juggling so much. They’re underpaid and overloaded with a classroom full of diverse needs. Instead of complaining, why not lend a hand? -
Feeling Guilty
Let go of the guilt! As I age, I realize I’m not ruining my kids. Despite what social media or random acquaintances might say about parenting, we’re doing just fine. Embracing guilt-free living makes for a happier mom, and we all know that a happy mom means a happy home. -
Comparing Kids
Especially as they hit high school, the urge to compare can be overwhelming. “What did their kid score on the SAT?” “Why did he make the team, but my kid didn’t?” Just say no to that comparison trap. It leads nowhere good.
So, what’s one thing to embrace this school year? Yourself! Kids are tougher than we think. Let them take risks, even if it means they might bump into a few walls along the way—trust me, they won’t do it more than once (well, maybe a few times).
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Summary
This school year, moms should focus on saying no to gossip, doing homework for their kids, elaborate lunches, overcommitting as volunteers, blaming teachers, feeling guilty, and comparing their children to others. Instead, prioritize self-care and trust that your kids will thrive.