menu_open Columnists
We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

Being a working parent is a logistical nightmare. Imagine if school holidays were something we looked forward to

24 0
28.09.2026

When my eldest started school I made the highly original discovery that the school day ended at 3pm. My work day did not. Since then, my life has been a logistical and psychological nightmare.

Before-school care, after-school care, activities, therapy, swimming, the dentist. I am bored just typing it out. And yet it needs to be organised, paid for, a new app downloaded for each activity, for two kids, five days a week, essentially for eternity. And don’t get me started on school holidays.

I have colourful markers and magnetic planner on my fridge, a joint calendar run like a military operation, inbox zero. But it never stops and one mistake means a kid roaming unsupervised, which is highly frowned upon.

Parents do not have a monopoly on being busy or having problems. But we do deserve a medal. Or a break. Or at least to have a........

© The Guardian