But mom…I want to go to school

I’m sure there are many parents who are in the midst of high intensity discussions with their children right now. We’ve shifted as a nation forgetting that not everyone dances on the same beat. (That’s pretty evident if you’ve ever seen toddlers dance to almost anything. Lol)

I delayed doing this post because let’s be honest…most people are tired of discussing the infamous Covid-19. As a mom I have to say that this has been the strangest “Story of Unfortunate Events meets Jumanji” kind of year. I wish someone would call Captain Planet to fix all this. Lol Wishful thinking.

Here is some encouragement to all my fellow parents…

~ Continue to create and live the life you want to live

If you become so engrossed in everything that’s been going on you miss the opportunity to enjoy what’s right in front of you. I’m talking tickle fights, dance battles and bubbles!! Some of you wanted desperately to be home with your babies more and here is that opportunity. Yes, they want to get back to their friends and school but they also want time with you.

Now I’m not saying you have to start a Tik Tok account but do some random fun things that they enjoy. (Although, if you do hop on Tik Tok let’s connect: https://vm.tiktok.com/JM1bkwj/)

~ Find what works best for you and your children

Don’t fall for the parenting shame being thrown around by the “perfect Patty parent”! You will have to do what is best for you and your children because ultimately no one your home like you do. If that means sending your children to school then send them. If that means keeping your children home then keep them home. Unfortunately, I have seen many parents, especially single parents, dealing with the backlash of going to work and sending their children to school.

Oh and the outcry has been pretty loud!

As a mother of four I had to make some interesting choices this school year. I have one college student who left to go to school in another state and one who stayed home and has online classes. I also have two teens who are in high school trying to adjust to doing online learning. It is not an easy choice on either side but the most important thing is to make an informed decision. What are the precautions? What are the protocols for that particular school? Most schools are keeping parents well informed but if they are not than an email or call to the school district will answer your questions.

~ Don’t get lax on your self care

Now more than ever, as parents, you need to take some time for YOU! It can stressful trying to work and home school and keep the number of gray hairs to a minimum. Self care may be a walk early in the morning or a detox bath after the kids go to bed. Self care also can include being deliberate about your time. (Hint: You may need to tell a few people no in this season) Now, I know the running joke is for parents to get a glass of wine to calm down but that is not a bad idea. A glass of wine can have some benefits but a cup of tea can do the same thing.

When taking time out for yourself you can create a space that is just for you. It may be a space on your porch or balcony or a comfy spot on the floor in your bedroom. There may be some people that find solace as they sit in their living room even when the television is not on. That works well too. Just find YOUR space and make it YOUR space. Add little things to make the space your own as if you are stepping into your own hideaway. (Hey, we use to make forts out of sheets so I know you can do this!)

In all honesty, this is not something that we have had to deal with prior to now. We are all doing our best to either ride the wave or least not fall off the board. That means that grace should be give and expected as we figure things out.

With over ten years of writing, Altovise uses her platforms to create opportunities for women to have their voices heard. Founder of the World Voice League, she educates and empowers through courses, a weekly accountability call, blogging, books, and the #SpeakEasy Podcast.

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