Sure, I said it—loud and clear for all to hear, and I can already imagine the gasps from those around me. But before you jump to conclusions, let me explain…
This year, my children moved up to upper elementary school. Attending the parent orientation felt a bit like stepping back into my own childhood—anxious about the changes yet thrilled for the new opportunities. The principal took the stage and opened his PowerPoint presentation, highlighting three crucial points he deemed essential for new parents: safety, staff quality, and, of course, attendance.
As soon as that last bullet appeared, I could sense my friends in the audience glance my way, chuckling at my determined expression.
I completely understand that laws require children to attend a certain number of school days or I might face some serious consequences. I’m not advocating for letting my child stay home just to dodge a spelling test. But let’s not forget—I brought these kids into the world. I carried them for nine long months, taught them how to walk, talk, and yes, even how to use the bathroom. I provide them with meals (most days, I even manage to serve balanced ones), purchase their clothes, and spend countless hours driving them to activities.
I clean up their messes, deal with their tantrums, enforce rules they dislike, encourage them to eat their vegetables, and sometimes struggle to help them with their math homework. And guess what? I still take them out of school whenever I feel it’s right. I know some parents might disapprove, and some teachers may even whisper behind my back, but my priority is my children—not their opinions. I only remove them from school when I genuinely believe the benefits outweigh any potential drawbacks.
Every year, I meet with their teachers and assure them of my commitment to my kids’ education. I emphasize that they are hardworking, kind, and respectful, always striving to do their best. Education is vital, without a doubt. However, in our home, family remains our top priority—no ifs, ands, or buts about it.
This means that when opportunities arise for family trips that will create lasting memories, we seize them. Whether it’s a family gathering with relatives who live over a thousand miles away or an adventure that falls outside the school calendar, we make it happen.
I strive to be considerate regarding my children’s absences. I always inform teachers well in advance, request any assignments they should complete during our time away, and reassure them that any work missed will be tackled promptly upon our return. I recognize that as my kids grow, managing this may become trickier, but I will always prioritize what’s best for them—and I don’t need a school calendar to dictate that.
Spending quality time together as a family strengthens our bond, and I believe that hands-on experiences are invaluable learning opportunities. What’s more effective—reading about ancient civilizations or exploring the ruins firsthand? Watching a video about glacial formations or hiking on one? Completing math problems or figuring out currency conversion in real-time?
Traveling also exposes my kids to diverse cultures and perspectives, fostering inclusivity and empathy. It teaches them to adapt and navigate life’s unpredictability—skills they’ll carry with them forever.
Moreover, the learning doesn’t stop once the trip ends. Whether conducting online research, planning activities for the journey, or journaling their experiences, there are countless ways for children to engage their minds. In fact, I even have them prepare presentations to share their newfound knowledge with their classmates (I know, I can be tough!).
As a parent, my responsibility is to keep my children safe, nurture their growth, and educate them. If they attend 160 days of school instead of 180, but spend a day with their 97-year-old great-grandmother hearing stories of her childhood, or build lifelong connections with distant cousins, or even taste gelato in Italy, I call that a success. That’s why I feel zero guilt about prioritizing my children’s needs over the school calendar.
For more insights on parenting choices, check out this post on at-home insemination kits, which can also be a valuable resource for those looking to expand their families. For more information on fertility topics, visit the CDC’s resource page.
Summary
This article discusses the author’s perspective on prioritizing family experiences over strict adherence to school attendance rules. The author emphasizes the importance of education while valuing hands-on learning opportunities and family bonding, asserting that creating lasting memories is equally, if not more, important than schooling.
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