I embarked on my teaching journey at just 22 years old. Education has always been my passion—it’s ingrained in me. I have dedicated countless hours, both personally and professionally, to this field. Making the decision to step back from my career is a challenging one, both mentally and financially.
Many parents express that their children are difficult or demanding. They often lament their lost freedom, sharing tales of tantrums, poor grades, and cluttered rooms.
I understand. Each parent has their own limits, which can vary widely. Perhaps my thresholds are unusually low, or my expectations for myself are too high. What I do know is that I strive to be the best parent I can be with the resources I have.
I have made the tough choice once again to take a break from teaching to better address my children’s social and emotional needs. This isn’t the first time I’ve done this, and it likely won’t be the last, but it hasn’t become any easier.
Raising a daughter with learning challenges and social difficulties is no walk in the park. Pair that with a second daughter who is incredibly empathetic and sensitive, and the challenges multiply. These two siblings, who are polar opposites in understanding social cues, often struggle to connect. Sibling rivalry is a reality, and it’s crucial for us as parents to support both their individual growths.
So, for the third time, I’ve stepped away from my teaching role to provide my daughters with the guidance they need to flourish. This involves focused social coaching, a great deal of patience with homework, and the occasional retreat to the bathroom for a mental health break.
You get what you get with your kids. We love them dearly, but they can certainly test our limits.
It’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Acknowledging that parenting can be tough—draining our time, energy, and finances—is essential. I allow myself to experience these emotions, whether it’s anger, sadness, or annoyance regarding my decision to pause my career, a field where I have thrived, to prioritize my children. Even as I find myself exasperated over trivial arguments, I choose my kids.
The emotional strain is compounded by the financial implications. I know I’ll have to work longer to prepare for retirement, and I’m aware we’ll need to forgo pricier vacations and upgrades to our home. Balancing our children’s welfare with our desire for financial stability as we approach our 40s is a tough choice.
There’s also the pride that takes a hit each time I leave a job. Starting over repeatedly is exhausting. Proving myself again and again while dealing with the challenges that arise at home can feel overwhelming.
I grant myself the space to acknowledge these feelings. The financial sacrifices and the toll on my ego are simply part of the motherhood journey. While I may not enjoy it, acceptance is key.
I know I’m not alone in this decision. Many mothers face similar struggles, and in many ways, we are fortunate. I have the ability to stay home and fully support my children’s needs. My husband is our primary financial provider and shares parenting responsibilities equally after work. Together, we navigate this journey.
Despite the challenges and the emotional toll, there are bright sides to my new path. Although I’m stepping back from teaching, I’m not abandoning my passion or the valuable skills I’ve developed over the years.
As a seasoned educator and aspiring writer, I can still focus on advocating for educational reform through my writing. I remain excited about the field and motivated to share my experiences to enhance education for both students and teachers.
I can keep up with educational articles, maintain connections with professional networks, and discuss ideas with former colleagues. Taking a break doesn’t mean I’m quitting; it offers me a chance to engage with my love for education in a different way.
I’m preparing to begin a PhD in Educational Policy and Leadership soon, which will allow me to solidify my commitment to driving change in teacher education. During the school hours when my children are occupied, I’ll dedicate time to research, writing, and expanding my professional network.
Stepping away from a career doesn’t equate to halting personal growth. Our minds require ongoing exercise, and now I have the opportunity to stretch my intellectual boundaries.
For parents juggling full-time jobs, finding time to stay updated with school events and activities is tough. Now, I can actively engage in my daughters’ school life, which I couldn’t do before.
Mornings can now be spent helping my girls prepare for school, easing their nerves before assessments, and being there for the inevitable friendship issues.
Rather than rushing to teach others’ children, I can savor the time spent nurturing my own.
Choosing to pause a career is never simple; it’s an emotional, exhausting, and humbling decision. However, for my family, it feels like the right path. It’s about balancing our contributions to society with our role as parents.
Ultimately, it’s not just about me or my husband, or even our children; it’s about us as a family. We will always do what’s necessary to support one another.
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Summary:
The decision to leave a teaching career for the sake of supporting children’s emotional and social needs is both challenging and rewarding. With two daughters who present unique parenting challenges, the author emphasizes the importance of family support and personal growth during this transition. Accepting the financial and emotional sacrifices involved, she finds new opportunities to engage with her passion for education through writing and further studies.
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