Kick me while I’m down would you

Things have been a nutty around here.  Long days, warm weather and some inconsistency in my husband’s work schedule.  The girls have been bickering a lot lately.  The oldest is very tearful and the middle girl is a future volcano.

Yesterday M – middle child and middle sister – hit the wall (almost literally).  She was just a ball of rage.  So I decided to keep her home from school and try to find out what was bothering her.  I also made an appointment to speak to her teacher.  I had requested a conference earlier and decided to push it now so I could find out how things were going at school as well as let her teacher know what was happening at home.  That way if there were any anger issues at school she would let me know immediately.

My husband rearranged his schedule so I could meet with the teacher.  I was not prepared for how things went and I will not bore you with all the details but I’ll share a couple of the most fun moments.

Moment 1

Teacher:  She is probably acting out because you don’t pay enough attention to her.  I mean, you have so many children how can you guarantee each child the attention they need.  I think you should hire a baby-sitter and take her out for some one on one time.

Me (in my head): I was stunned.  I wanted to cry.  I thought I was a good mom.  Me (out loud): I do my best.  They do get individual attention but it may not be as much as they want.

Moment 2

Teacher: It’s your job to be the parent.  You should have brought her into school today and not let her get away with her behaviour.  Parents like you need to realise they are the grown-ups and not let their kids be the ones in charge.

Me (in my head): WTF  This is the second time you have ever met me you don’t know me!  Me (out loud): I’m actually quite strict.  I think if you knew us better you would find that we don’t let our children rule us.

I walked away feeling pretty beat up and again doubting myself.  I WORK SO HARD at being a good parent.  It’s the most important thing I do.  As the hurt and frustration passed the anger has come on.  You know I may not look the age you have in your head to be “old enough” to be a parent but I am one.  I am also an adult of my own right.  PUNCH

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