What Parents Go Through Just to Survive Winter Break With Kids Is Epic
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Every parent deserves a pat on the back after making it through the holidays. But just because you survive the chaos surrounding them doesn't mean that you're in the clear. That's because another stress-inducing time period immediately follows: Winter break. And it always starts the same — almost like childbirth, we don't remember how painful it was last year having the kids home from school. You trick yourself into even looking forward to this "break" as a way to recover from a hectic season and as a time to make some family memories. As amazing as that sounds, reality will quickly sink in, and you'll spend just as much time counting down until this time is over as you did anticipating its start. Check out the stages parents go through when their kids are on the loose!
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When you're pretty excited for all of the family memories you're going to make over break!
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When it's day one and you guys are having the best time EVER.
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When you think you've planned all of these fun activities for everyone. #WorldsGreatestMom
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When you quickly realize that things aren't going to go as you hoped.
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When it feels like the kids won't stop fighting for even a second.
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When your kids tell you that they're already bored with the new toys they got for Christmas.
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When you suggest they read a book or entertain themselves.
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When you have to bring them along to get errands done.
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When you brainstorm more indoor crafts than Martha Stewart, but nobody is into it.
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When they won't stop talking about the exotic trips their classmates are going on.
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When another mom invites them over for a play date.
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When you return the favor and reluctantly agree to host a sleepover.
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When you give in and let them watch one more episode of Caillou (because you have nothing better to do).
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When you catch yourself considering bribery just to have everyone get along.
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When the kids gang up and get into some trouble.
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When you start counting down the days until school and realize that you've almost made it!
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When you're secretly more than willing to cave in and allow more screen time.
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When you're reminded more than ever how uncool you are.
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