7 Downfalls To Having School Age Children

7 Downfalls To Having School Age Children

 Having school age children is a double edged sword.  On the one hand I am totally thrilled that my kids are becoming more independent and absorbing everything they learn like little sponges. But on the other hand,  me, as a Mom, have to adjust to a whole different set of challenges that are not so fun. Here are my top seven reasons why school is not cool!

1. The homework. Oh how I HATE the homework. Not because I disagree with the idea of reinforcement of the day's lessons at home, but because I  have to sit down with my child and threaten them with whatever it takes to make them settle down and do it. Not to mention the frustration that shows itself on both sides. I mean, I could be doing something much more enjoyable, like unloading the dishwasher.

2. I'm suddenly in the 6th grade again. Which means I'm re-learning how to divide decimals and find proportions and ratios. Good God! I've never felt more dumb in my life! Khan Academy and any math videos I can find on YouTube are my best friends.

3. I get stressed out over my child's workload for the week. I know he has a math test, a science test, and a social studies test on Friday. Plus, he has a study guide and a workbook due! I feel like the overwhelmed student who can't wait for it all to be over. Yet he remains cool as a cucumber. This is so backwards!

4. Science Fair Project season is my worst nightmare. He or she (which is code for “we”) works on it for weeks. Before it's all over my child and I have shared a few laughs, some tears, definite glaring looks and several late night arguments. A few therapy sessions may be helpful. WE better get an “A” or I'm going to strangle somebody.

5. I've talked about it before and I'll say it again. Those damn sight words will be the end of me! When you've been stuck on the same set for weeks, it can drive a Mother to her limits. S-H-E. THE WORD IS SHE! SHE! SHE! SHE! Look at the word and memorize it! Why can't you remember it? Waaaah!!!

6. The mornings are never smooth sailing. Between the whining, the wardrobe battles and the spilled bowl of Cheerios I can't wait for Summer break again. Wait, never mind, bring on the crazy morning's!

7. Sickness, lice, weird rashes, bacterial infections, and pinkeye are among my top reasons why having school age children totally sucks. School age kids have no sense of boundaries when it comes to playing with their friends. I've dealt with all of these gems EXCEPT lice. But I've definitely had a scare or two. My daughters know when something is up because I check their hair at least 5 times a day for weeks!