Yes, I really said it. I know some may be shocked, but let me explain my perspective. This year, my children transitioned to upper elementary school. Attending the parent orientation, I felt a mix of nostalgia and excitement—a little hesitant about the impending changes. When the principal stood to speak, he presented a PowerPoint with just three key points: safety, teachers and staff, and absences from school.
As soon as the last bullet point appeared, I could sense my friends glancing at me, stifling laughter as I assumed my “don’t mess with momma” expression. I fully understand that educational laws require children to attend a certain number of school days each year, or I risk facing consequences. I’m not advocating for letting my son lounge at home watching TV to dodge a math test. But let’s be real—I brought these children into the world. I nurtured them for nine months, taught them essential life skills, and provide for them daily. I endure their tantrums, enforce rules, and even tackle common core math homework with them. Yet, I still choose to take them out of school whenever I feel it’s necessary.
I know some parents disapprove, and I can imagine teachers discussing my choices behind closed doors. But they aren’t my priority—my children are. I never pull them from school without considering the benefits versus the downsides. Each year, I meet with their teachers to express my commitment to their education. I ensure they work hard, show kindness, and always strive for their best. Education is undeniably important, but in our family, togetherness takes precedence.
This means when a family trip arises that promises to create lasting memories far beyond any lesson in 4th-grade math, we seize the opportunity. Whether it’s a special gathering with relatives who live a thousand miles away or an adventure that doesn’t align with school breaks, we go.
I always strive to be respectful. I provide ample notice ahead of time, request any assignments that need to be completed during our travels, and commit to making up any missed work promptly. As my children grow, I recognize this may present more challenges, but I will always prioritize what I feel is best for them—regardless of school calendars.
Spending time as a family not only strengthens our bonds but also offers irreplaceable learning experiences. What’s more enlightening—reading about ancient civilizations or standing in the Colosseum? Watching a video on glacier formation versus hiking on one? Completing math worksheets or calculating currency exchange rates? Travel exposes children to diverse cultures, fostering empathy, inclusivity, and adaptability—skills vital for navigating life.
Moreover, learning extends beyond the trip itself. From researching destinations online to planning itineraries or journaling experiences, countless opportunities exist for children to expand their knowledge. I even have my kids prepare presentations on what they learned to share with their classmates—yes, I can be tough!
As a mother, my role is to safeguard my children, nurture their spirits, and educate them. If they attend school for 160 days instead of 180, yet gain invaluable lessons from a day spent with their 97-year-old great-grandmother or bond with cousins they seldom see, or indulge in gelato in Italy, then I consider that a victory in parenting. Therefore, I feel no guilt when I prioritize a calendar that aligns with my children’s needs over the school’s.
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In summary, prioritizing family experiences over rigid school attendance can lead to meaningful life lessons. It’s essential to recognize that education encompasses much more than what takes place in the classroom.