You know, if I had a dollar for every time someone inquired about my child’s preschool status, I’d be rolling in cash. It’s astonishing how often I encounter this question, coupled with a bewildered or even condescending expression when I respond, “No, my child isn’t in preschool.” Some folks even feel compelled to lecture me on the supposed necessity of preschool, claiming I’m doing my child a disservice.
Let me share my reality. Preschool tuition could as well be a million dollars—okay, I’m exaggerating, but in Los Angeles, it’s quite pricey. My family certainly doesn’t have a million dollars to spare. Sure, I could return to work, and a chunk of my paycheck could fund preschool, but what about my younger child? I definitely don’t have a million dollars for two kids’ preschool. And don’t even get me started on the notion that I should’ve begun applying for preschools while I was still pregnant—seriously, who has time for that? As for free options, it turns out we’re too “well-off” to qualify. And transitional kindergarten? Nope, my child doesn’t meet the age requirement either.
I truly understand the advantages of enrolling kids in preschool, and I once believed my children would attend. That was before I faced the reality of costs and logistics.
Contrary to popular belief, stay-at-home parents aren’t lounging around all day binge-watching shows and snacking on ice cream. (I save my guilty pleasures for after bedtime, thank you very much.) My daughter is incredibly clever—she’s got numbers, shapes, spelling, planets, and even dinosaurs down pat. She’s social, albeit a bit shy, and we have playdates and groups every week to help her engage with peers her age. Our adventures include trips to museums—art, space, natural history, and more, where she’s learning endlessly. Add to that her participation in soccer, gymnastics, and dance, where she’s honing her social skills and learning to follow instructions.
To those who suggest that preschool might help with her shyness, I say maybe, but maybe not. I went to preschool and was the shyest kid on the block, often hiding behind coat racks. I clung to my mom’s leg until second grade, despite her being nearby. So, even with preschool, my daughter could still be reserved like I was.
Let’s not forget, preschool isn’t a mandatory step (neither is kindergarten in California). My child will only be this age once, and I’m committed to making the most of it. I’m done justifying our choices to friends, family, and even strangers—seriously, why do random people feel the need to offer parenting advice? My kid is amazing, and I’m doing a fantastic job raising her.
For those who have the means to send their kids to preschool, that’s awesome! It’s a wonderful opportunity; it’s just not the right fit for us right now. If you’re interested in exploring more about fertility options, check out this excellent resource on IVF and fertility preservation. And for those curious about home insemination, be sure to visit this blog post for great insights. And if you’re looking for tools to assist with self-insemination, this kit is a valuable resource.
In summary, while preschool has its merits, it’s not the path we’re taking right now. My child is thriving, and I’m completely confident in our choices.
Keyphrase: My child isn’t in preschool
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