I’m gearing up for summer school holidays, and I’m not going to lie:

I hate school holidays!!

I know…

Hate is a strong word.

But sometimes, there’s nothing like a good four letter word to release all that pent up frustration, am I right?

Don’t get me wrong, there are things that I’m looking forward to, like sleeping in, fewer WhatsApp groups to follow and no school-bus pickup.

But let’s face it, there’s plenty of disruption to routine, boredom and sibling rivalry to make up for it.

Looking for more support? Check out the online, Summer Support Group for Moms

Don’t let the honesty scare you though.

Just because I openly dislike the notion of a nine-week break from routine (9 weeks!!), it doesn’t get in the way of being a calm and content mom.

I hate school holidays… but I love my kids.

I hate having to find things to do everyday… but I appreciate the break from the grind of the school schedule.

I hate not having the freedom to do what I need/want to do (just a few solid, consistent hours, please!)… but I value spending quality time with my kids making memories.

In fact, being honest about how I really feel now as we are about to be thrusted out of routine, makes it easier to cope.

As soon as I got honest with myself about what I think and how I feel about the school holidays, I was able to:

• Adjust my expectations of myself and my kids (which means I felt more patient)
  
• Acknowledge and honor my own, personal needs (which means I get them met too).
  
• And enjoy the present moments with my kids more (instead of resenting them).

So even though we think, “Good moms love every minute”, the reality is that “Moms who are honest with themselves enjoy it more”.

So however you’re feeling these days about motherhood, especially if you’re juggling the school holidays, take a minute and acknowledge those feelings.

You, and your kids, will be better for it.

If you’re like more support this summer vacation, be sure to check out the Summer Support Group for Moms, a 6 week, online support group to help you stay patient, present and enjoy the summer holidays with your kids.