When it comes to high-anxiety parenting moments, school concerts often top the list. The emotional rollercoaster of the event combined with the frantic preparations can leave you questioning your life choices—like, perhaps, home-schooling might be a better option.
Getting my son, Ethan, into anything resembling formal wear is a monumental task. Convincing him to wear khakis and a collared shirt is akin to pulling teeth, which inevitably leads to him being one of the least dressed kids at the concert. As I navigate through the throngs of parents, the search for a seat feels like a scene out of a blockbuster film, with everyone clamoring for the best view. Once I finally squeeze into a spot at the back and endure the obligatory chatter with fellow parents, I find myself sweating in my yoga pants, anxiously wondering when I’ll need to give Ethan The Look.
School concerts are a rite of passage for parents, filled with a whirlwind of emotions—joy, anxiety, pride, and fear all collide to create a perfect storm. Sometimes, these feelings come at you so fast that it’s hard to sort through them. Here’s a glimpse into my mind during a school concert:
When will this thing finally kick off?
After battling through a crowd for a seat, sitting on these uncomfortable metal chairs for what feels like an eternity, I’m ready for the show to begin. Twenty minutes of small talk with the room mom, trying to recall the assistant principal’s name, and avoiding eye contact with the PTA coordinator who’s giving me the side-eye for not being more involved this year.
Is everyone feeling as anxious as I am?
Because I’m a bundle of nerves. After years of Ethan’s antics on stage, I’m not just nervous—I’m petrified. But maybe this time will be different.
Wait, he’s actually singing!
What a pleasant surprise! Wonders never cease.
What’s that stain on his shirt?
Is that grease? Dirt? Oh, phew, it’s just a shadow from the wrinkles I forgot to iron out. What kind of mom forgets to iron her son’s shirt before a big concert?
What is he doing up there?
Is he picking his nose? Oh wait, he’s just scratching it. But now everyone will think he’s being gross!
Did I leave my flat iron on?
Oh no, I’m pretty sure I did. And the stove is probably still on too! Should I text the neighbor to check if our house has turned into a bonfire?
When will this be over?
I have cookies to bake for tomorrow’s class party. And by “bake,” I mean “buy from the store.” Plus, I need to wrap those teacher gifts. And I’m way behind on a few episodes of my favorite show.
Hey, kid, put down the iPad!
You, with the giant iPad recording every off-key note—put it down before I snatch it from your hands!
When did these kids grow up?
Ethan is in fourth grade now! When did that happen?
Don’t cry.
Too late; the tears are flowing. I hope no one notices my mascara running. But honestly, I’m not alone—everyone else is tearing up too.
Maybe I should’ve had a drink beforehand.
Why don’t they serve wine at these events? That would definitely make for a successful fundraiser!
School concerts are not for the faint-hearted. But in these moments, there’s a strange camaraderie among parents.
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In summary, school concerts stir a myriad of emotions for parents, blending anxiety, pride, and nostalgia into a chaotic experience. The struggle to prepare, the fears of the unknown, and the bittersweet realization of how fast kids grow up all contribute to the complex feelings of the day.