Mom to Mom: It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

I don’t know what school district you’re in, but my kids’ first day back to school is Aug. 2. I know a lot of people opposed the incredibly early start date for our district, but I love it and I’ll tell you why.

First, we have more breaks throughout the school year. The occasional longer weekend and more frequent short breaks means less burnout for everyone. My kids range in age from elementary to high school and they all get burnt out, especially from February on, and especially if spring break is early in the year.

Second, I’m all in favor of kids being in the school in August. It’s the hottest part of the year and not everyone has the luxury of air conditioning. Being in school not only gives them access to fresh meals, but also cooler temperatures. We will be getting out by Memorial Day, so the milder June days can be enjoyed outside.

We can vacation when everyone else is in school. Summers and holidays are crazy times for travel and going on vacations. But having extra time off throughout the year means a family can go to Disney or Dollywood with slightly shorter lines. Yes, that may be a silly reason for liking the earlier start date, but it’s the truth.

Finally, it helps the kids retain information. I know my kids lose a lot of what they learned the previous year, and teachers spend the first few weeks back to school reteaching what had been taught in May. A slightly shorter summer might make the difference between remembering those pesky fractions and not.

I know no school calendar will please all of the people in a district. And I know for as many reasons why I like the earlier start, there are tons of reasons why others don’t like it. It’s a hard balance, I’m sure. But the best bet is to make do with what you have. So, book that trip to Dollywood for February, and be glad your kids are in an air-conditioned building with their friends in August. It will all work out in the end.

Allison Wells is a wife, mother of four, and an award-winning author. She's Team Oxford Comma and her motto is "Life is short, eat the Oreos." Find her online at allisonwellswrites.com.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Mom to Mom: It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year