A Day Off for Parents: A National Holiday Proposal
I shared with my friends my ambitious plan to run for office, where my top priority would be to establish two new national holidays for parents. The first holiday would be a “organize your house and life day off” at the start of the school year, followed by another day off in early January after the holidays. During these days, kids would attend school while grandparents would step in as substitute teachers, allowing parent-teachers to also take a break. This initiative would greatly benefit the entire country, as I believe that being a more organized individual would make me a better leader. While some may suggest organizing on weekends, I believe that those days are best reserved for quality family time, especially during the summer weekends before fall sports season takes over.
I am also a proponent of the “No sports on Sundays” platform, influenced by my upbringing in a Mormon household where Sundays were dedicated to church and family activities. I believe that society would benefit from a designated day of rest and connection, free from the hustle and bustle of kids’ sports activities. It’s disheartening to see Sundays overtaken by sports events, even in states like Texas where sports culture is prevalent. Perhaps a move to Utah, where Sundays are traditionally more sacred, could offer a different perspective.
As a mom, I understand the challenges of balancing summer fun with the impending fall schedule. The transition from carefree days to structured routines can be overwhelming for many parents. While the idea of letting kids be bored sounds appealing, the allure of screens and technology often makes organized activities a more convenient option. Screens and processed foods have become pervasive challenges in modern parenting, requiring constant vigilance and setting clear boundaries.
At my company, I recently declared a four-day weekend for myself and the team, allowing us to unwind with a camping trip and tackle home organization tasks before the school year begins. Taking time for oneself is essential, whether through mental health days or quality family moments. As we navigate the back-to-school season, I encourage parents to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed.
With the fall routine approaching, I look forward to embracing “SOUP-tember” – a time for healthy routines, early bedtimes, and cozy evenings. Family TV time has become a cherished tradition in our household, and we are on the lookout for a new show to enjoy together. Suggestions for age-appropriate shows for 10 and 12-year-olds are welcome!
As we bid farewell to summer and welcome the new school year, I extend my gratitude to all the parents and supporters who make it possible. Here’s to a successful and fulfilling academic year ahead!
Opening Image Credit: Photo by Kailtin Green