MOMania

By Together for 12

May 14, 2008 7:26 AM | Link to this

Well, I’ve always felt that unless you are graduating from 8th grade to HS, HS to college, or graduating from college, it’s not a graduation and doesn’t deserve caps, gowns, and all that. “Graduating” from Kindergarten? Let’s get real. That’s not an accomplishment and it does just add to all the end of the year hassles. It’s so much worse, I suspect when you have more than one child you’re trying to juggle all these “events” for, and if you don’t show up to everything, you’re such a horrible parent, right? The excitement for the kids is already there - no school for awhile! Isn’t that pretty much enough fanfare in and of itself?

By fk

May 14, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this

I always enjoyed the Mother’s Day Tea. Enjoy it now because these years pass quickly. When my son was very young and played rec league baseball, the end of season parties were held at the park following the last game. The parents were a fun and laid back group, and we all brought a food item or drink. The only thing missing was booze….ha, ha. Those were fun times. And, although our children all attended different schools, there are a few of us (the adults) who still socialize.

About the other stuff, I did a lot at my son’s school b/c I had only one child, but it all gets old after a while, especially hearing the same conversations over & over with the sometimes overbearing PTA moms. I started to pick & choose which events I would participate in, explaining to my son that other moms needed a chance to help out, too. Girl Scout party? Growing up, the last event for the Girl Scouts was the Memorial Day parade. Afterwards, there was a big gathering in the park where the parade ended…that’s where our stuff ended, too.

Does your daughter’s school really have a graduation ceremony with all the pomp or is it simply a moving up ceremony? We’ve had this disucssion before, stepping stones vs. milestones, and I think that a cap and gown ceremony should take place for true milestones…high school graduation and college. Accomplishments should be acknowledged, but some of these celebrations are getting out of hand. These kids are going to wind up thinking they deserve more than a pat on the back for everything thing they do.

By Davona

May 14, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

As a public school teacher and a parent, I agreee that there is WAY too much “celebration” going on. My students and my child have their foot on the accelerator to the last day. Then, once the kids are out the door, I will do the celebrating. I’ve earned it!

By Thor

May 14, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

Kindergarten graduation…. who came up with that one? The photography company to sell parents more stuff???

By Lauren

May 14, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

Kindergarten graduation? Really? I am sorry but that is just silly. We reward kids these days for everything. Not every rite of passage in life deserves a celebration. You are expected to finish kindergarten. End of story. It is not a graduation. Good lord!

By Belle

May 14, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

I think it would be cute. I remember when my nephew graduated kindergarten, in fact I have the pictures somewhere. Now in a few weeks he will be graduation high school and going off to college. I love the fact that I have the pictures to look back at. It is fun. The kids really don’t get alot of celebrations, at least to me it does not seem so. I guess it adds up if you have several kids and it would seem like alot but hey, in the end it is all in good fun.

By Monica

May 14, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

I am broke. Contributions to retirement gifts, baby gifts, wedding gifts, Mother’s Day, Baseball trophies, graduations, and end of the year teacher’s gifts have me somewhat strapped. I should have planned better!

BTW - I am exhausted too!

By Ebaby

May 14, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

I am 29 yeras old and I had a graduation from kindergarten celebration. We had paper gowns and caps. I always thought it was because Kindergarten isnt really part of elementary school, so technically, you are moving onto a different institution- so to speak. No harm done. It at least gave me a taste of what it was like to be rewarded for good school work.

By Sarah O

May 14, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

I think my kids and I are all completely exhausted. Dance recitals, T-ball parties, field day, school play, Mother’s Day…I know I feel as though I HATE May right now. There doesn’t seem to be a single day where there isn’t another “event.” So, methinks it is too much.

By Single ATL Mom

May 14, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Field Day was yesterday for my daughter. She has a blast but I wasnt there. She told me about it though. She is having a awards ceremony but I am taking off for a vacation trip to alabama next month with so thats when we will celebrate.

:-)

By Lauren

May 14, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

Kindergarten has been part of regular elementary education for over 20 years now. If you are a kindergartner you are in elementary school. So what are you graduating from? Also, do you need some formal event to take pictures of your kids? I don’t think so. I tell you this also brings to mind why I don’t let my kids play soccer at a young age. I signed my oldest up once and I was appalled at how the parents stood on the sidelines and insanely clapped and cheered at every little thing. “Yay!!! Johnny you ran down the field!!! Way to go!!! Yay!!!” Ridiculous. That was the first and last time we went to something like that. These days kids are rewarded just for participation. No wonder test scores are so low. Why on earth would you try hard when you are covered with stickers and trophies just for showing up? Now let’s all don our caps and gowns and reward ourselves for completing kindergarten. Yay us!!!

By Stacey

May 14, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Kindergarten graduations aren’t a new thing. I graduated from kindergarten in 1975 with all the fanfare of a high school graduation. My son’s pre-k took cap & gown pictures but did not wear them for the ceremony. They wore t-shirts the read “school name Pre-K Gradution 2006” and blue jean shorts. The ceremony was just them showing off the skills they learned and was very sweet and cute. It was not the least bit formal.

This year he’s in 1st grade & so far this month they have had a CRCT party & field day. They are having a Spring/End of Year party Friday (last day of school 05/30), the PTA is sponsoring an ice cream social one day next week and the ASP has a pizza party coming up.

While they do have more parties than I remember, I don’t think we did any kind of work the last couple of weeks of school when I was in lower elementary. My son says that they are learning new things but their only homework is to read 15 minutes each night.

By Stacy

May 14, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

I have three children and I know how this goes. I find the beginning of the school year to be equally busy. I will say that I think we way overschedule our kids these days. Our school stresses that children ten and under should be involved in only one extracurricular activity PER WEEK. I know some little kids who do scouting, soccer, dance, piano and swimming…all during the same week. Crazy!! Kids need lots of down time— time to just have free play and imaginative play. If we have them scheduled for something all the time they don’t get this much-needed kid time. I think sometimes parents think they are doing a great thing having their kids so active and so involved but they are really doing them more harm than good. My two oldest children do dance lessons during the school year and swimming lessons in the summer. Throw in school and friends and they are plenty busy and active but they still have plenty of time to just come home after school, throw on their play clothes and go play in the backyard or sit around and read and trade comic books, etc… So much fun and so necessary!!

By Thor

May 14, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Field Day! My child has passed that age. I have heard from other parents that today they have non-athletic events during Field Day, evidently for the overweight kids so they can participate as well. Does anyone know if this is in fact true? Field Day use to be about athletics and competition, but I’ve heard from two parents it has been diluted in order to encompass everyone. I hope this isn’t true….

By JJ

May 14, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

The last couple of years, I have held a pizza party at my house the last day of school. All my daughter’s friends and some of the neighborhood kids all come over for pizza and cokes. I usually order about 10 pizzas. Its becoming a tradition, and the kids look forward to it……and I love having all those kids in my house…..this year I think I will set up a badmitton set in the back yard for them to play.

By Jill

May 14, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Amen Lauren!

By Theresa

May 14, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

I actually miswrote although there are kindergarten graduations — we will be attending a preschool graduation this friday —- in gwinnett at least kindergarten is the stepping stone into first so the big break comes at preschool — so they do preschool ceremonies — late for our belated mother’s day tea — our preschool teacher had emergency surgery so they waited until she could be back —-

By new mom

May 14, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Hey JJ, that really sounds like a nice tradition. I have always thought a lot of parents who not only don’t mind kids over, but welcome them. What time should we be there?

Hey— can I bring our almost 8 month old baby? We will be celebrating her 7 month going into 8 month Graduation. The photographer shouldn’t take too long with the cap and gown photo shoot. Boy she loves to teeth on the mortarboard…

By Lovin Life

May 14, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

Wah Wah Wah!! I have all these events the next two weeks too. It is a few weeks out of your life to have some fun with your kids, and let them know you are interested in what they do and what is important to them. It is all fun too. Admit it you will have your camera out as your little one sings a cute song in their end of the year show. You will hug them when they get their soccer trophy and watch as they put it in their place of honor. Having children is a blessing. Enjoy!!!
By the way if it is too much don’t sign them up for soccer, ballet, girl scouts etc. next year. It is not great for them to hear you complain about all of it. Do these things because they are good for your kids and you all have fun doing them together!

By DB

May 14, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

I’ve always thought that May, in its own way, is much worse than December and the holidays, as far as all the rushing around and coming and going. I think the kindergarten graduations are a little silly, but hey, they’re 5 years old, what’s wrong with being a little silly? What I don’t get are the parents who sit there and cry at them! Good grief …

My kids’ school didn’t have a kindergarten graduation, but in 8th grade, my kids had “the 8th Grade Assembly”, for the last assembly of the year where awards are given. No special cap/gown or anything, but the 8th graders processed in as a group and had reserved seating, and as they came in, “Pomp & Circumstance” was played. Then the headmaster got up and told the parents, “The next time you hear that song will be in four years, when your student is graduating.” It gave us all goosebumps! Fast forward (and oh, my it does go fast) to senior year, where EVERYTHING is a celebration, with the awareness that “this is the last time we’ll be doing this” — and it’s all in May — senior picnic, senior night, baccalaureate, etc., etc., on top of all the end-of-year stuff for your other children (and possibly running around bringing your college-age kids home with a year’s worth of dorm-room accumulation!) Thank goodness the prom is in April!

But embrace it and enjoy it all — you will MISS it like crazy when the last one graduates!

By JJ

May 14, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

NewMom Come on over around 6:00. Bring the baby, we will serve pizza flavored baby food….or, we’ll just throw a slice in the food processor and mush it all up for the baby. ha ha !!!

By JJ

May 14, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

NewMom I LOVE having kids over at my house. My daugther’s friends have always known they are welcome in my home……Its normal for me to have 4 or 5 (or more) kids down in the basement watching movies on weekend nights……

I much prefer to have them in my home, than out driving or going to the mall…….

Everyone usually brings something, a bag of chips, candy or something to nibble on, and I provide popcorn and sodas….

By thomas

May 14, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

I totally agree. I teach at an elementary school. This infernal place is having 2 days for Field Day and 3, godawful, infernal days of Awards Days. Half a day is set aside for each grade level to have an Awards Day ceremony. Personally I think that all of this Awards Day nonsense is overblown.

From my years of experience, teaching at three schools in two different counties, I have found that the bigger the ego, the bigger the Awards Day ceremony.

When I worked at a very reasonable school, staffed by rational, level headed people who were egomaniacs, the “Awards Day” ceremony lasted one hour and was in the media center. The teachers gave out their little certificates (which the school bought), and the thing was over. On the other hand, I have been at schools where small teachers wanted the stage and spotlight on themselves and every peon under the sun was giving out “awards”. Grand speeches were made for every little “accomplishment.” Some of these programs went on for two and three hours.

By new mom

May 14, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

JJ—we’ll be there!

Can’t wait to see what pizza spit-up looks like…I hope she doesn’t get it on her graduation gown! ;)

By new mom

May 14, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

JJ, I think we’ll be the same way about having kids over. We were like that with kids from our youth groups, they were always welcome. It’s just so much fun to have a house full of kids. And yep—you know where they are, who they are with, etc., and they are not driving!!

By Katie

May 14, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

I loved my sons kindergarten graduation…yes I know it is silly to some but it is a BIG deal for these kids. Now what I am tired of are the end of the season parties for soccer and baseball. Going to Stevie B’s or Cici’s is not fun. I cant go to every party or school celebration..my kids understand. They enjoy the fun and I am happy they are having a good time and school is almost out for summer.
I remember loving all the end of the year stuff growing up and I want my kids to have those fun memories as well. We do what we can.

By mom3boys

May 14, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

C’mon, quit whining!! These years go by so fast! Enjoy each and every event and the time the kids are around…you’ll blink and they’ll be gone! Boy #2 was “just born” and now he’s graduating…and he reports to college end of June (OK, it’s a prestigious military college requiring early reporting), and poof! he’s gone…#1 is already gone…gonna bonsai #3 to keep him little!

By CD

May 14, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

My last one is out of high school this year. It is my experience that you are only as exhausted as you allow. Get you kids involved in too much..you pay the price…don’t whine.

By JSP

May 14, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

If you don’t like Steve B’s or Cici’s for your end of year sport parties why not step up and provide an alternate option?

Lauren, what is wrong with parents of young children (or any age child for that matter) acknowleding the teams/childs effort on the field by cheering them on?

By Leigh

May 14, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Why do you feel that it’s a requirement that you attend everything that is scheduled for you or your child? Just choose what is meaningful or pleasant for you and sent polite regrets to the rest. It’s not a crime to run your own life.

By mari

May 14, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Each “Awards Day” or graduation gives children a sense of accomplishment—-as adults if we have a job that isn’t our “dream job” then for us the paycheck is the award, but little ones that have 2 or 3 days of award days at schools or Spring Flings, Summer Jams, and Fall Balls makes them feel good!It gives them an extra “bonus” to being successful and reaching new heights! I LOVE all the celebrating that comes with the endings of the school years because it is a time that I can create more memories with my daughter! When I was little I graduated from Kindergarten (cap and gown and all) and my mother celebrated as if it was my college graduation—so I will never forget it! My I am a celebration nut because I celebrate everything with themes, balloons, cakes, and presents from good grades, turning into womanhood, to losing a tooth! I take all sorts of picture and dry out the roses so I can bot them in a memory box so when my daughter gets older, she can look back and remember that we celebrated everything—-we celebrated big things and little things! We celebrated life!
So if you are a parent that is overwhelmed with the celebrations—then just hold on because one day the children will be gone and you will have nothing to overwhelm you; if you are a parent that loves to celebrate —then keep it up because one day the children may be gone but the memories of you making everything BIG will be etched in their hearts forever!

By MrLiberty

May 14, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Well, if you were homeschooling your children like a responsible parent should, then the end of May would just be another time of year to continue your child’s education. The summer vacation, if that’s when you wanted to take it, would be seen as another great learning moment, and every other stress day that the government chooses to throw out at the sheep that feed on its fields would pass by without even a glance.

How sad that personal reliance gave way to government subservience.

Oh well.

By Lauren

May 14, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

JSP- cheering a goal is one thing, I agree that is fine. But these parents clap and cheer like maniacs over nothing. The kids are just running around, aimlessly kicking the ball and by the way these parents are carrying on you would think they just won an Olympic gold medal. And honestly how are the kids supposed to learn when they have truly done something great if their parents clap like idiots at everything. Don’t try to say I am not for applauding accomplishment. But let’s applaud true accomplishment instead of “way to go!!” and “atta boy” for every kid who runs down the soccer field with a finger jammed up his nose. Seriously!

By BigJake

May 14, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

MrLiberty, would you do me a favor and roll it up real tight and cram it. Thanks!

By StiffUpperLip

May 14, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

So JSP thinks effort should be cheered and applauded. Great! Well, I tried to stay faithful to my wife but I failed. But I really did try. Can I please get some praise for trying? The effort must count for something, right? I tried to graduate from high school but the classes were so early and I was so very sleepy so things didn’t work out. But I really did try. I’ll take my cheering and praise now, please. I just love a society that rewards effort. Used to be you had to actually accomplish something but now effort is all that matters. I’m in heaven. Pass the cheetos and turn up the TV. I tried to go to work today but just couldn’t make it. Hopefully I will be rewarded with a raise tomorrow.

By mari

May 14, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

wow.

By Lauren

May 14, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Mrliberty, did you go to college? If so, why? By your beliefs shouldn’t you have stayed home and taught yourself or had your mommy teach you? Since when does going to school mean you aren’t self-reliant?

By me

May 14, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

StiffUpperLip that is almost one of the most iggnorant analogies I have read in a long time! You deserve exactly what you got: a divorce, a GED certificate (if you got that)and a raise? Sounds like you only go to work to pass time by—-your attitude sucks! You wtite like an emotionally neglected child. Get a grip, tick to the topic and go to work and be thankful you even have a job!

By Kool-Aid House

May 14, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

I for one love everything about the last few weeks of school. My daughter is going to her first prom (8th grade), and the level of excitement that exudes from her is quite refreshing. I can’t believe she’s going to H.S. So, like many of you have stated, the years go by so fast so what if there’s a lot to do. Do it w/a smile on your face, because the child absolutely loves it all especially Kindergarten graduation day!

By StiffUpperLip

May 14, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Dear Me, Ummm. Okay. Wow. Did you really think that was a serious post and that I really did all those things? Okay, then.

By Kool-Aid House

May 14, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

I think StiffUpperLip was being facetious!

By Kool-Aid House

May 14, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Ok, now with his last post, I know he was. Can’t believe you didn’t sense the humor in his post Ms. Me.

By motherjanegoose

May 14, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

My points for the day:

I GRADUATED from Kindergarten in 1965…so this is nothing new under the sun. Having taught Kinder for years, it can be lots of fun to have special celebrations. CD is right on the money with the idea that you can get way over committed.

Mr. Liberty: and are yours out with Mommy shopping all day long( as I have seen) in guise of taking a field trip? What exactly are you learning at the mall or Wal-Mart?

Here is a funny end end of year surprise for your kids… we used to have all the moms on the block meet at the bus stop on the last day with a cooler full of popsicles and cans of silly string. When the kids got off the bus..we would count: 1..2…3… a squirt them all with silly string. They screamed and squeeled…it was a lot of fun and then we all ate a popsicle to kick off the summer . Let me know if anyone tries this…it is hilarious!

By StiffUpperLip

May 14, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Kool-Aid goes great with cheetos. I’ll be right over!

By Kool-Aid House

May 14, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Curious motherjanegoose how old are these kids. Teenagers may not like this??

Ewwwww, but come on over I could use the company!

By JJ

May 14, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Mother What a wonderful idea…. I love the silly string. I am sure the kids LOVED it…

By motherjanegoose

May 14, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

We did this when they were in elementary school but they still talk about it even though they are in high school and some in college! I love those happy memories! Keep me posted!

By me

May 14, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

no. i missed the humor in stiffs lip-

By Jenny

May 14, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

I rarely post here, but what’s with the comment about homeschooling and going to the mall or Wal-Mart? My kid is homeschooled, and actually we were just talking about going to the mall tomorrow if it rains. Is there something wrong with that??

By FCM

May 14, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

I am Social Room Mom….so I am working hard on the end of year party….I love it though.

Of course there is Soccer etc….its all been chaotic for weeks though.

By MrLiberty

May 14, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Hey Big Jake,

Get me all the money that has been stolen from me and my parents since I started attending private schools over 35 years ago and then I cram it up nice and tight.

Until then, I will happily and freely speak out against an immoral system based on theft and coercision that is not just stealing from the general public and businesses, but is failing, brainwashing our society’s children into believing the lies the government wants them to believe and turning them into ‘good citizens” that will tollerate any loss of liberty without even blinking.

You know the first thing Hitler did was to sieze the guns and shut down the private schools. But not the government ones. Hmmmmmm?

Keep fostering the intellectual debate.

By MrLiberty

May 14, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

Jenny,

Unfortunately those of limited intellect like MotherJaneGoose don’t bother to find out what homeschooling is really about, nor to they have the mental capacity to see how even a trip to the bathroom can be an educational experience if you make it one. They only understand learning as something that goes on between a teacher who stands at the front of the room as is “approved” by the state and the students who sit in chairs at the back.

One of the great beauties of homeschooling is that is suddenly makes you realize just how fantastic this world is and how everything is an opportunity to share knowledge with ones who lack it.

I don’t know how old your child is, but a trip to the mall in today’s economic climate would present great opportunities for education. How clothes are presented in the store window is a type of marketing and advertising. How much stuff costs versus say last year is a good example of monetary inflation which could lead to a discussion of the illegal federal reserve and how it came into being. Watching employees go about their jobs could lead to interesting discussions about the minimum wage and labor value. A visit to the Discovery store could spark discussions about any of a number of subjects. The food court could begin a chat about countries of the world.

How do homeschooled kids get SO SMART?? That’s how.

Good for you Jenny.

By JSP

May 14, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Really Liberty, A particular Mom I know that is homeschooling to a very large brood in my neighborhood can’t figure out why the sprinklers work when the power is out in the neighborhood (before the watering ban). I find it unlikely she is discussing economics and marketing at the mall.

And I’m not taking shots at all parents that choose to homeschool. Its your choice, but not everyone who chooses to homeschool is “qualified” to teach anything beyond the basics.

And, yes, I cheer at my children’s games, every one of them since they started playing at 4 and 5. I cheer for all of the children who make an honest effort not only those that score a goal or hit a homerun. “I tell them, nice try, keep your eye on the ball and you’ll get it next time!”

If you expect young, young children to fully understand the concept of soccer and not to run aimlessly on a soccer field you are mis-guided.

At very young ages, effort is what counts in sports. Not perfection.

By motherjanegoose

May 14, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

I am laughing…My intellect is so limited that I have books published for teachers and am a national early childhood educational ocnsultant who has spoken to educators in 46 states. I may know two or three things. I have contracts for a year out.

I recently observed a home schooling Mother ( around 1:00 p.m….time for a field trip)who had a cart full of clothes, jewelry and purses while she was looking at perfumes. During this time she was screaming at her children to shut up and leave her alone. She said this phrase at least 10 times… THIS IS IS YOUR LAST WARNING. I wanted to ask her, “which time?”

COULD is the Key word in Mr.Liberty’s Ideas…yes, these COULD be learning experiences if the Mamas would take the time.

I have never home schooled and never will BUT I have taught in 3 different schools and now work in 50 schools who hire me ( with my limited intellect). I have been in schools from New Jersey to Alaska. I have seen more than many. Just my opinion.

By Mom of Two

May 14, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Mr. Liberty - you crack me up! Its like my grandpa has come back from the dead.

I’m with Lovin’ Life. Life’s too short and the kids aren’t little forever. I’m enjoying it. We’ll have all summer to hang out because we didn’t sign up for any camps and plan to be really, really bored. Looking forward to it!

By nurse&mother

May 14, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

DB- When my oldest graduated from 4 year preschool, I thought she was going to be my only child. I’m not sure what came over me, but I cried like a baby! Later that afternoon, I was terribly embarrassed. I guess I just knew my only baby was growing up and would no longer be little anymore. I think if I had another child at that time, I would not have gotten so emotional. I am very thankful to have another child. I don’t think I will be so tearful the second time around. With 8.5 years difference, I may be hootin’ and hollerin’. LOL

By fk

May 14, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this

Mr. Liberty:

From which private institution did you acquire your superior knowledge? Your post to Big Jake has many spelling/grammatical errors. And, you assume, (uh-oh), that only parents who homeschool teach those lessons when they go to the store or the mall. Rather limited thinking on your end, yes? BTW, regarding the child who attends school outside the home, but who also accompanies a parent to the mall for a field trip, we call those lessons reinforcement.

motherjanegoose:

Out of curiosity, have you taught grade levels other than kindergarten, and for how many years did you teach?

By SuwaneeMom

May 14, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Honestly my daughter and I always have fun in May. I’m more exhausted trying to decide and register her for summer camps this year.

By motherjanegoose

May 14, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Taught 2nd grade Pre-K and Kinder. 14 years in the classroom and the past 11 as a consultant and working in schools across the metro. My degree was K-8 and I was invited to teach middle school in Texas but NOT FOR ME…I do not function in the hormone house…LOL. I have enough of hormones here as a mother of 2 teenagers. I volunteered at middle school for years…my utmost respect is for those teachers!

Quick question…

The Moms who were having a pedicure with their home schooled children (around noon) when they knocked several bottles of nail polish on the floor and their moms yelled at them to pick it up, would that be a math lesson in counting how many bottles your child dropped or and art lesson in shades of color?

By mom3boys

May 15, 2008 6:37 AM | Link to this

I always am amused when the moms go after the “experts,” like mother goose…Jane presented to the preschool I taught at 8 years ago…she is amazing. Unlike her, I have embraced teaching at the “Hormone House.” It’s really comical…lots of great stories to tell at parties!! This time of year it’s a real nut house…one never knows what they’ll do next! BTW…if moms want to homeschool, go for it…but be sure it’s for the right reasons. I know several who do it because they cannot accept the fact that little Johnny is ADHD out the wazoo and needs either a firm parent or a steady dose of meds. These parents don’t want to choose either option, so they home school, as the school “has it out for their child.” Hogwash!!

By motherjanegoose

May 15, 2008 6:55 AM | Link to this

Tipping my hat to you mom3boys and thanks for the compliment! I do not know everything and learn new things every day BUT I know of which I speak.

By Amorris

May 15, 2008 6:57 AM | Link to this

WITH ALL THE NEGATIVITY AND POOR ROLE MODELS FOR YOUNG GIRLS THEY NEED ALL THE ENCOURAGEMENT THEY CAN GET. A K’GARDEN GRAD IS A GREAT IDEA! I THINK WE SHOULD LIVE EACH DAY TO THE FULLEST AND CELEBRATE EACH DAY! THERE ARE TOO MANY END OF SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND THEY SHOULD TAKE 1 DAY FOR PARTIES AND FIELD DAYS. IT IS HARD SKIPPING OUT OF MY OFFICE AT THIS TIME.

By FCM

May 15, 2008 7:02 AM | Link to this

My I am a celebration nut because I celebrate everything with themes, balloons, cakes, and presents from good grades, turning into womanhood, to losing a tooth!

So what are you really teaching the kid? That everything deserves a big party? Perhaps that is why we are the country in the most debt….teach them to appreciate the good stuff without having to have all the accolades.

By fk

May 15, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

What mom went after motherjanegoose?

By Jenny

May 15, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

I’m still confused about what seems like snide comments from MotherGoose and what they have to do with homeschooling.

Are homeschool families never allowed to go to the mall or Wal-Mart? And if not, why not??

And what is the relevance of the manicure story?

If a kid in a store knocked over something, but you knew that kid was public schooled, does that make it any better?

I’m not sure I get what your complaint is.

By Lucia

May 15, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

I enjoy end-of-the-year activities. With multiple children, and multiple activities (even if it’s just one or two per child), it can be a busy time. That’s why we need summer -to recover! As for kindergarten graduations, it’s a celebration of educational achievement. Only in Georgia, where we say “Thank God for Alabama” at educational rankings time, would that be considered a bad thing. Get children hooked on learning early and maybe, just maybe, we’ll be saying “Thank God for South Carolina.”

By JJ

May 15, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

Jenny If you don’t get it, you shouldn’t be home schooling your kids…

She was talking about the “Home” schooled children, and why were they out at noon getting pedicures…….

Most public school kids don’t go out and get pedicures at noon. They are usually AT SCHOOL.

By Jeff in Roswell

May 15, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

I really don’t care for Mother Jane’s sarcastic comments about home schooling. She is lumping ALL home schooling situations into one. That’s not the case Jane. You have obviously devoted your life as a teacher and I applaud that. Please free your mind. There are other ways to get an education. I think the teachers that have spent their life teaching are so engrossed in that lifestyle that they can see no other. I wonder if their slams on home schooling are caused by the fact that home schooling parents defy “the establishment”? My wife and I have considered home schooling but have determined that neither one of us is in a position to take on that challenge. That said, there are plenty of parents out there that are more than qualified to teach their children.

By Jeff in Roswell

May 15, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

JJ That’s the beauty of home schooling! You can take your children out at any time of the day. Teaching can and is done at ANY time of the day. Schooling is not limited to just 7:45 - 2:15. Mother Jane is doing a lot of ASSuming and taking things out of context.

By mom3boys

May 15, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Lucia, I believe the expression you are looking for is “thank God for Mississippi.”

Sorry, but I would trade my Alabama high school (Vestavia Hills) for my kids’ Gwinnett high school in a split second!

By motherjanegoose

May 15, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Thanks JJ…I was getting scared for Jenny !

Yes, Jeff ( sarcasm abounds in this columns…when did you join us?)…I agree that there are good home schoolers…I remember reading somewhere that a Delta Pilot’s wife was homeschooling her middle schoolers because they traveled to Europe, Asia, Africa, and visited all the historical sites in America on their flight passes….then kept journals. I was totally impressed. We had friends who were military and their son was at a DOD school. Their was only one teacher for middle school, he was gay, and they were uncomfortable with it ( I am telling you this story…it is NOT me), so they home schooled him and did a wonderful job. There are always exceptions to the rule and these parents can make a go of it.

USUALLY, I see parents who are at odds with the school ( see mom3boys at 6:37 today) and yank their kids out with no clue as to how much work it would take to home school every day!

I know I could NEVER teach Latin ( my daughter loves it) or AP Physics ( next year for her and we will have a hot line to her brother at college).

I read, in the AJC, that it seems funny that teachers are required to attend continuing ed classes even when they have their masters or Ph D in their subject and yet homeschooling parents could teach say high school chemistry with the high school diploma they have themselves…does this make any sense?

I believe my mind is freer than most since I have seen children all across the country. Did you know that I saw Alaskan children who would not whimper when it is time to go outside for playground and it is 20 degrees or less. Prents and children here in Atlanta, are whining…IT’S TOO COLD TO GO OUTSIDE, when we dip into the 40’s!

I have met with over 80,000 educators and speech pathologists across the country…as I said before…I do not know everything and learn new things every day BUT I know of which I speak.

It’s been fun…I am outta here now!

By Jenny

May 15, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

So if a homeschooled kid knocks over a jar at noon, that’s a problem, but if a public schooled kid knocks over something at 3:00 pm, it’s fine? That doesn’t make much sense to me.

Surely people here aren’t implying that homeschooled kids/families should never leave their house between 8 am and 3 pm, are they?? That makes no sense at all.

If you’re assuming that if a family is at the mall at lunchtime, they must not ever be doing schoolwork, that’s a huge assumption to make. They could have just finished 4 hours of work and are taking a break before they go home and work for 4 more hours. Maybe not, but you have no way of knowing.

Don’t forget, too, that homeschool families aren’t tied to a school schedule. They can do schoolwork after dinner, on the weekends, in June, whatever.

By JJ

May 15, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Jenny You are scaring me……

I fear for your kids’ future.

By CD

May 15, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

With all the traumatic stuff going on all over the world, we have dedicated an entire blog to “Mommy is exhausted”..amazing..get a life.

By JJ

May 15, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

CD of course Mommy is exhausted. Ever walked in her shoes?

Ever been a fulltime chauffer/nurse/maid/accountant/etc. on call 24/7?

By Jenny

May 15, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

JJ, why am I scaring you?

I’m completely serious. What did I say that was scary/strange/untrue?

And you fear for my kids’ future because … why, exactly? Because we might go to Wal-Mart at noon instead of 3:00??

Seriously, please elaborate. I don’t feel like I’ve said anything strange or even radical.

By Thor

May 15, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

Mommies are exhausted. Men could not do it.

By Jeff in Roswell

May 15, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Jenny don’t pay any more attention to JJ. He/she obviously doesn’t know what to say once you back him/her into a corner. Hey Thor - I am the one doing it - not my wife! She works full time and travels constantly for her job. I have taken the non traditional role of staying home with our child - and working part-time. It’s not just women anymore.

By Jesse's Girl

May 15, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

I wish I had the patience to be a home schoolin’ mom….I’d do it in a heart beat! No more worrying about school systems and such….that would be nice. However, I have found it vital to understand and embrace one’s gifts and strengths. And this is most certainly not one of them. I couldn’t even teach piano and voice to my daughters.

Per the topic….yes. There is indeed a lot to go through and get done in May. However, I’d never miss it. I feel this huge tug for their baby years already! So I photograph EVERYTHING!!!! They may not seem like they care if you show up for their D.A.R.E. graduation or “fill in the blank” award ceremony. But believe me….if you’ve made for all the other stuff and then don’t show…they notice. It matters to them, so it matters to me.

By FCM

May 15, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

I just spent my morning watching my 2 at Field Day….while I wish dearly I had a boss to explain it to, I was thrilled none the less to participate today!

By Thor

May 15, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

“Mr. Moms” - that’s another bizarre thing happening in America today. Good for you, knock yourself out but normal women would rather be with their children and have the old man working. Secondly, men a wired to compete at work and earn a living. Sorry but most men today view “Mr. Mom” as oddball. I’ve met some of these guys and I would not want to hang out with them. Get a job and give your child back to Mommy who is genetically wired and is far superior at raising children. Or, just live off your wife. Barf.

By FCM

May 15, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

@Thor—I know a guy who is Mr. Mom and the whole family is healthy competitive. I don’t think anyone is going to mistake him for anything less than a ‘real man’. However, for there house, it made more sense for her to work and him to work from home and be primary on the kids. Mom on the other hand is thrilled to be the Mom, she works her day so that she is able to be at all the recitals, etc.

By Jeff in Roswell

May 15, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Thor, get with the program. Just because you aren’t “wired” for staying at home with a child, doesn’t mean every man should follow your logic. I could say a million things here but you know what Thor? You’re not worth it. I’m guessing this guy is in his 50’s close to 60 - out of touch with today’s society.

By Jeff in Roswell

May 15, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Thor - me cave man. I drag woman by hair. Ugh!

By Thor

May 15, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Jeff lives in Roswell which is upscale and expensive. Way too many Mr. Mom’s are just riding the gravy train of wife-e-poo being a “Squaw Man”; these are the same men who get excited when the Wiggles come to town. When the child heads off to school Mr. Mom rarely heads back into the work force full tilt. Jeff, start cooking dinner for me and iron my shirts - I get home around 6:00!

Women are the best at raising children, no doubt.

By JJ

May 15, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Jeff Knock if off. You have attacked a few of us here in the blog today, myself included.

Do you not have anything better to do?

By motherjanegoose

May 15, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

mom3boys… I love Vestavia Hills…I would move there!

By Jeff in Roswell

May 15, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

JJ - LOL! that’s funny coming from you. Does the phrase “you can dish it out but, can’t take it” mean anything to you? I find it interesting when one disagrees with “the regulars” here they get all up in arms. This blog and it’s comment section are not here just for you.

Thor What would you like for dinner honey?

Wouldn’t you like to know what I do for my income? - hahaha! I bet you do. I’m sorry you envy my position.

By 2mommies

May 16, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

Enjoy them while you can…..spend the time with your child while they still want you in their life….It will not be long before your 18 year old would rather you not attend. Remember there are parents who have lost their children that would give their right hand to attend that school graduation or mother’s tea. Or the parent of a disabled child who appreciates that field day is all inclusive and attends to cheer on their son or daughter knowing they are there for the fun not to win the athletic event. Slow down and enjoy the essence of the event, make a memory, don’t let the stress ruin a great opportunity to connect with your child and the things important to them. This is a limited opportunity, I have 2 daughters, 1 passed away 11 years ago and the other turned 19 in March. My son has autism and will never function above that of a toddler. You never know what life will bring..look for the fun and enjoy it.

By motherjanegoose

May 16, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

2 mommies… thanks for putting things into perspective. When a neighbor ran over our beloved little dog Lucy ( a month ago) and killed her 3 feet from our front yard I thought how awful it would have been if it were a child who darted out. We are sill mourning but I cannot fathom losing your own child.
No matter how rough things are others have it worse. I remember this saying… IF WE HUNG OUR PROBLEMS OUT ON THE ( CLOTHES) LINE…YOU’D TAKE YOURS AND I’D TAKE MINE! You are in my prayers today.