The Most Chaotic Preschool Pickup Ever

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The Most Chaotic Preschool Pickup Ever

by Lisa Harper
Updated: April 15, 2021
Originally Published: Oct. 11, 2015

As I drove home from my daughter’s inaugural day at preschool, I experienced an emotional wave, one I’d grown familiar with since becoming a parent. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming urge to give my little one the middle finger—using both hands.

I should have anticipated the day’s trajectory before it even started. All summer, we had been building up the excitement of preschool. The night before her big debut, she tossed and turned, unable to sleep. She woke up earlier than usual, complaining of a tummy ache that even a candy-flavored Tums couldn’t soothe.

The drop-off was a breeze. But when school let out, I stood outside, baby in tow, waiting for my daughter, Mia, to emerge. She looked so small as she came through the double doors, her eyes, framed by dark circles, squinting against the sunlight while she scanned the crowd of parents, completely oblivious to my waves and shouts of her name. When she finally spotted the school bus, her frown turned into a look of relief.

“Mia!” I called again.

The moment our eyes locked, she erupted into tears. That’s when I noticed the card she was clutching tightly in her hand. It showcased a cartoon bus with the name “Mia R. #609” scribbled in black marker.

I had no idea who Mia R. was or if she’d even gotten on the right bus. All I knew was that my Mia was sobbing on the front steps, shouting, “I don’t want to go with you! I’m taking the bus!”

I forced a smile at the other parents, trying to convey, “Kids can be so dramatic, right?!” Meanwhile, all the other kids were running toward their moms with open arms and bright smiles. I was left standing there, alone.

Taking a deep breath, I reminded myself not to take it personally. “I know it’s disappointing that you thought you were riding the bus. They mixed you up with another Mia. I’m taking you home.”

“No! NO! Nooo! I want to take the bus!” she cried.

“I know, sweetheart.” I reached out to comfort her, but she swatted my hand away.

It’s not about me.

That mantra had been echoing in my mind all summer, especially as my sweet, affectionate 3½-year-old began expressing her sass. I kept telling myself she was feeling jealous of her baby sister, and this was her way of showing it. She was overstimulated, tired, and upset about the bus. Surely, she was happy to see me.

“But I wanted Daddy to pick me up! I hate you!”

Ouch. My feelings were hurt, and I felt the urge to respond with, “I hate you too!” But I held my tongue. I didn’t want her to see that she had gotten under my skin.

By the time she calmed down enough to put on her helmet and strap into the bike trailer, we were the last ones left outside the school. As I pedaled home, she declared, “I don’t like you because you don’t do enough favors for me!”

Favors? Favors? You lived in my body for nine months!

I pushed 8½ pounds of you out my body after 30 grueling hours. I’ve lost countless hours of sleep for you. I gave up my career for you. I am your teacher, your chauffeur, your chef, your maid, your stylist, your housekeeper, your laundress, your secretary, and your assistant. I am your mother, and my love for you is immense.

What favors am I failing to deliver?

At the next stoplight, I turned to her and, in my most patient, cheerful voice, asked, “What kind of favors would you like me to do for you that you feel I’m not doing, darling?”

She peered up at me, her fuchsia helmet casting a shadow over her face. “Don’t talk to me!”

I love my child, of course. But let me tell you, being a mom is tough in ways I never anticipated. As Mia embarks on this journey of formal education, I’m reminded of something my sixth-grade science teacher once said: “There’s a fine line between love and hate.”

Back then, I didn’t understand what she meant. Now, I totally get it.

If you’re navigating the complexities of parenthood or considering options like home insemination, check out this blog post for some insightful tips. And for those interested in more information, Make a Mom is a great source when it comes to home insemination. Additionally, Resolve offers valuable resources for understanding intrauterine insemination.

In summary, parenting can be a delightful yet chaotic journey, filled with moments that challenge our patience and understanding. As we support our little ones through their first experiences, we also reflect on the unconditional love we have for them, despite the occasional outburst or meltdown.