"'Tis the season, parents. As if the 'ber months didn't send our bodies into fight-or-flight immediately, this is also the time of year when schools start getting spirited. Yes, the School Spirit Weeks are upon us, from homecoming-themed dress-up days to holiday weeks (seriously, "holiday accessory day" is a wild choice), there is going to be a whole lot happening. And you? Well, you're the one who has to find black-and-white-striped tights for your kid who insists they're going as Olivia for Book Character Day."
"But it's not the time to panic - and it's not the time to pull out a spreadsheet and start treating this like it's a big holiday and you're now one of those TikTok moms who begins all her Thanksgiving meal prep in September. Listen, you can handle a Spirit Week for the kids. I promise. You just need to follow this guide. (And maybe scream into the void a few times, that's always helpful.)"
"First thing to remember: Spirit Week is not that serious. Deep breaths. Take one, and then take another. This is Spirit Week. This is not your child's last chance at school, or a test of your parenting prowess, or a grift set up by the board of education so they can judge you. I promise, not one single school has created the Spirit Week calendar, set it aside, and let out an evil villain laugh while rubbing their hands together with glee."
Spirit Week brings themed dress-up days and noisy parental expectations but remains low-stakes. Parents should stay calm and avoid treating Spirit Week like a major event. Children often find joy in simple, silly outfits and enthusiasm. Focus on each child's wishes rather than matching other parents or following perceived pressures. Practicality beats perfection: quick solutions and simple pieces can satisfy costume needs. Allow kids to express excitement and preserve their joy. Humor and perspective help manage the temporary chaos rather than exhaustive planning or performance-driven comparisons.
Read at Scary Mommy
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