Why I’m not sad that both children are now at school

After starting school alongside her brother two weeks ago, today is the first day that S will be there until 3pm, after staggered finishes so far (totally a huge pain in the bum for parents whether they work or not, but I can see why they do it). 

And you know what? After dropping both children off this morning, I practically skipped out of school all the way to the gym, before coming home, grabbing a coffee and cracking on with some work, excited that this is how my weeks will pan out until the October half term.

Does that sound awful?

Maybe to some, but after 5.5 years of mostly being at home with a little person, which I have enjoyed oh so very much (and feel lucky to have been able to do), now is the time for me to focus on what I want to do, and what I want to achieve. 

I absolutely ADORE spending time with my two little ones- they are bright, funny, loving, keep me on my toes and challenge me, in both good and bad ways, every minute I’m in their presence. We had a brilliant 7 weeks together over the summer holidays. But they are SO ready for everything school can offer them- socially and academically – and it’s time for us all to spread our wings. 

I’m lucky that aside from my one day working in the office for my digital marketing job (hello, adult interaction!), I work from home in the school hours and evenings as I choose, so by the time 3pm comes, I practically skip to school to pick them up as I can’t wait to see my darling boy and girl. However, I definitely think I’m a better Mum when I have my own space, and when I’m feeling fulfilled with work and my own projects, as well as having more time to keep fit and healthy by going to the gym (full time working parents who fit 3/4 exercise sessions in a week, I salute you). It’s funny because when I was expecting Freddie we were adamant that I would be a SAHM, and that it was the best thing for him and our family, even more so when Sasha arrived 15 months later (we said a big NO to the whopping nursery fees that would have occurred had I gone back to my old job). But now I think if we decide to have a third baby, I would want to work part time from very early on, as I’m currently doing something I love and wouldn’t want to lose it. 

It’s funny, how your feelings can change within the space of 5 years, isn’t it? Even if you’ve loved (almost) every minute of being with your children previously.

So when I waved Sasha off two weeks ago for her first morning at school, I felt a little pang of sadness at the realisation that it was the end of an era- the days of pootling around the High Street on the way to toddler group have now long gone – but I didn’t feel sad or shed any tears as other Mum friends of mine have done, and for that I have felt a little guilty. Or rather, feel that I SHOULD feel guilty. 

But I know deep down that as she waved back happily to me on her way into her classroom, at the start of her long school journey, that the best is yet to come for all of us, and I’m excited for it. 

Having two primary school aged children- bring it on!

Did you/do you feel like this at all when your children went to school or nursery? Please tell me I’m not the only one!

Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.