For many working mothers, summer can evoke a profound sense of guilt. While some parents struggle to keep their children entertained during the long, sunny days of vacation, others face a different challenge altogether. The reality of spending summer at home with kids can be daunting, particularly for those juggling careers and family life.
The central issue often boils down to one feeling: guilt. As summer unfolds with weeks that feel alarmingly similar to the school year—save for a few vacation days—working moms may feel they are depriving their children of an enriching summer. Instead of lazy days filled with spontaneous adventures, many find themselves enrolling their kids in full-time daycare or a series of camps, piecing together a summer schedule that barely resembles the idyllic summers of their own childhoods.
In a thoughtful piece for a local publication, author Sarah Mitchell articulates the sentiments shared by many working parents during the summer months: “By mid-July, it hits me that our summer routine mirrors our school-year chaos. Between camp, work, and various activities, we’re always rushing. I keep promising myself it’ll be different, yet each year feels the same. My kids hardly have a moment to express the ultimate childhood sentiment: ‘I’m bored.’”
I can relate. During my own tenure in a full-time office position, our summers unfolded similarly. Even prior to school, when my children attended year-round childcare, the only discernible change in our routine was swapping out snow gear for swimsuits.
Mitchell elaborates on how her family’s one true vacation week encapsulated what summer should feel like for children: board games, outdoor play until dusk, and ample time spent swimming. This experience only amplified her guilt. “Somewhere along the way, I internalized the belief that summer should resemble those few blissful days. I remember my own childhood, filled with hours of unstructured free time,” she reflects.
I, too, cherish memories of carefree summer days spent without a strict agenda. Waking up whenever I pleased, exploring my surroundings, playing video games, or simply enjoying a good book—this was my definition of summer bliss. Like Mitchell, I had come to believe that by working full-time, I was unintentionally depriving my children of that same idyllic experience. Eventually, I realized that this perspective was misguided.
Now that I work from home, my children are enjoying a summer that aligns more closely with my nostalgic vision. Nevertheless, I recall those past summers spent at various camps, which provided my children with unforgettable experiences. My daughter learned new skills, made friends, and thrived in an environment that nurtured her curiosity and creativity. I often felt guilty dropping her off each morning, but in reality, she was having a fantastic time, while my own enjoyment was overshadowed by self-imposed guilt.
Fast forward to the present, where I find myself cramming my days off with activities, striving to maximize our summer fun. On the days I work, my children often resort to screen time, which leaves me grappling with a different type of guilt.
Ultimately, it’s essential to recognize that the children will be just fine. They will create lasting memories and find joy in both our active days and the quieter moments when I’m absorbed in work. While I grapple with guilt, they are focused solely on having fun. It’s time to silence that nagging voice and embrace the joy of the summer season.
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In summary, working mothers often battle feelings of guilt during the summer, but it’s crucial to remember that children can thrive in various environments, whether they’re at camp or enjoying downtime at home. Embracing this truth can help lighten the emotional load of summer parenting.
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