If you pay attention to the parenting space online, you’re likely bombarded by content about the mental load of parenthood or the immense challenge it can be to balance work and family. I knew about that struggle. But one thing I didn’t expect as a working mom was the sheer panic I would feel every spring as I tried to piece together child care for the summer months when schools are closed. Juggling the school-year calendar is rough enough as it is.
Now that my kids are older and have separate interests, there are few options that they both enjoy. While I probably could make them go to the same camp — and oftentimes I do — dragging a kid to something they detest for a whole week is less than ideal, especially when it costs a lot of money. I’m lucky to work from home and do work that I enjoy, and I am grateful that I have flexibility. Unfortunately, I can’t take the summer off to be with my kids. Far from it, actually.