March 1, 2023
As a stay-at-home parent, I find that I cherish educational child care almost as much as I adore chocolate cake. Honestly, it doesn’t even have to be a learning environment—daycare, playgroups, and nursery school all hold a special place in my heart. I genuinely appreciate the programs and the dedicated teachers, and the chance to drop my kids off while I take a moment to breathe deeply, knowing they are in a safe and structured space.
While I could teach my children their ABCs, I also have to juggle keeping the living room tidy and ensuring that everyone is dressed appropriately. Somehow, I’m one of those parents who can’t manage all of that without feeling completely overwhelmed. Child care is essential for my well-being.
And let’s take a moment to honor teachers—what incredible individuals! They choose this profession with love and dedication, and their commitment amazes me. Sometimes, I feel such gratitude that I have to resist the urge to give them a giant bear hug while shouting, “Thank you for being my lifesavers!” Because truly, they are.
This year, I made the decision to enroll my two youngest children in full-time preschool. It was time for a break from the daily chaos that had become our routine. You know, the delightful moments like when I leave the room for a moment only to return and find my toddler using all-purpose cleaner as facial mist, or my eldest washing his hands with a whole banana. And let’s not forget the 95 consecutive days of my preschooler pretending to be a cat, meowing as she rubbed against my legs during breakfast—definitely not a pet owner here! The day my cat-son decided to relieve himself in the backyard was the final straw that led me to sign them up for school.
Things weren’t always like this. There was a time when I was a working mom, feeling guilt-ridden for leaving my child in daycare. I hurriedly picked him up after work, savoring every moment we spent together. However, after quitting my job and having two more kids, I realized what a blessing child care truly is.
I’m one of those parents who always forgets picture day and never manages to send treats for class parties. I often feel like I need to do more for the teachers because, without them, I’d be stuck teaching my kids math, and let’s just say that’s where I draw the line. My daughter’s hair frequently resembles a tornado aftermath. I do my best, but sometimes her teachers send her home with beautifully braided pigtails, leaving me feeling inspired and a little less alone in this journey.
Preschool is where my children learn vital skills like how to use scissors without turning each other’s hair into a craft project. They discover how to line up, take turns, and behave like civilized little humans. They even learn cute songs with hand movements! Occasionally, my 4-year-old even sings to me in her “human” voice instead of meowing.
Preschool offers structure, fun, and arts and crafts that I don’t have to clean up. It provides them with time to miss me, and for me to miss them. It reassures them that Mommy always returns—sometimes even a bit early. Those precious hours rejuvenate me enough to engage with the whole cat routine, which is a relief since motherhood can be downright exhausting.
Thank goodness for preschool, chocolate cake, and the ability to find joy amidst the chaos.
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In summary, my family’s preschool hiatus ended because I needed the support and structure that preschool provides. It’s a lifesaver for both me and my kids, allowing us to thrive in our unique family dynamic.