Yes, I said it. And I can already picture the shocked faces of some parents out there. But before you jump to conclusions, let me explain…
This year, my children moved up to upper elementary, and I attended the parent orientation with a mix of nervousness and excitement. The principal opened his PowerPoint presentation and listed three key topics he wanted to address: safety, teachers, and—wait for it—missed school days. I could feel the eyes of other parents on me as I put on my best “don’t mess with my kids” face.
Now, I get it. There are rules about school attendance, and yes, I know the consequences of my children not meeting those requirements. I’m not suggesting that kids should skip school for a Netflix binge. But let’s be real—I brought these kids into the world. I nurtured them for nine long months, taught them how to navigate life, and I’m the one who manages their daily meals, outfits, and transportation to activities. I also deal with the messes they create, the tantrums they throw, and the homework struggles. So, here’s the deal: I’ll take them out of school when I think it’s worth it.
Some may shake their heads in disapproval, and sure, there might be teachers discussing my choices behind closed doors, but my priority is my children, not their opinions. I only pull them out of class when the benefits clearly outweigh the drawbacks.
Every year, I assure their teachers that I am committed to their education. They know my kids work hard, are respectful, and strive to do their best. Education is crucial, no doubt about it. But for us, family comes first—end of story.
When we have a chance to create unforgettable memories—whether it’s a family trip or a significant event with relatives who live far away—we seize the opportunity, regardless of whether it aligns with school breaks. I do my best to be considerate; I give ample notice, request any work that needs to be done while we’re away, and make sure we catch up on any missed assignments promptly. I understand that as they get older, this may become trickier, but I will always prioritize what’s best for my kids, regardless of school schedules.
Spending time together as a family not only strengthens our bond but also provides invaluable learning experiences. What’s more enlightening—reading about ancient civilizations or experiencing them firsthand? Is it more educational to watch videos about nature or to hike through a national park? Beyond the lessons learned on the trip, the preparation—researching destinations, planning activities, and even journaling—offers ample opportunities for growth. I’ve even had my kids create PowerPoint presentations about their experiences to share with their classmates (yes, I know, I’m a tough mom!).
My role as their mother is to keep them safe, nurtured, and educated. If they attend 160 school days instead of 180 but get to bond with their great-grandmother or explore new cultures, then that’s what I call a parenting success. That’s why I have no guilt about choosing a schedule that suits my family, even if it doesn’t align with the school calendar.
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In conclusion, while education is important, the experiences we create as a family hold immense value that can’t be measured by school attendance alone.
Keyphrase: Kids Missing School
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