By: Sarah Thompson
Updated: July 10, 2020
Originally Published: September 27, 2013
As a devoted parent, my love for my children is immeasurable. I cherish every moment spent with them and find immense joy in their company. However, there is one aspect of parenting that I find particularly challenging: the nightly ritual of putting my kids to bed.
I once had a conversation with a friend who expressed her enthusiasm for tucking her children in each night. Her excitement left me baffled and a bit envious, as I often find myself anxiously counting down the minutes until bedtime arrives. Am I failing as a parent because I eagerly await that moment, feeling a rush of relief at the thought of finally having a little quiet time?
Throughout the day, I juggle countless roles: I am a wake-up service, personal chef, chauffeur, referee, therapist, and so much more. I invest significant energy into each of these responsibilities, yet as bedtime approaches, all I desire is a brief respite—a genuine break—not a moment spent hiding in the bathroom while my children knock on the door, asking what I’m doing.
I know many will judge me for wanting to escape the bedtime routine. Nevertheless, the thought of reading yet another lengthy story, managing the chaotic tooth-brushing process, and navigating the nightly negotiations can feel overwhelming. Why is it that we must endure the same exhausting cycle every evening? It seems there could be a mutual understanding that bedtime could benefit from some self-reflection.
Once I finally get my children into their rooms, my duties continue. I engage in a ritual of “sucking out” their nightmares, tucking them in tightly, and showering them with affection. However, as I attempt to sneak out, I am met with the familiar refrain: “Mom, I forgot to tell you something REALLY important!” This initiates a frustrating back-and-forth, akin to a ping pong match, as I bounce from room to room, internally battling the urge to scream, “GO TO SLEEP!”
Eventually, after what feels like an eternity, I am released from their clutches and can finally begin my own evening tasks. This includes preparing lunches, checking for wet snow pants, and managing various forms to ensure everything is ready for the next day. During this time, I often find myself enjoying a glass of wine—just enough to alleviate the stress without inducing a headache while simultaneously contemplating how I will miss these chaotic nights when my children grow up.
In summary, while I love my children dearly, the bedtime routine can often feel like an exhausting task. The struggle to manage their needs and the repetitive nature of the process can lead to feelings of frustration. Nonetheless, I recognize these moments as part of the parenting journey, even if they can be overwhelming at times.
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