Sometimes I let my kids stay home from school.
Not because they’re sick or on holiday.
But because they’re human.
And some days, life just feels heavy, even for kids.
I can tell when something’s off.
When my daughter’s voice is quieter than usual.
When my son doesn’t want to eat breakfast.
When getting out the door turns into a meltdown over socks that don’t “feel right.”
We talk about mental health all the time, but what does that look like in practice?
For me, it looks like listening.
Paying attention.
Making space.
Some days, I give them the whole day.
To rest. To reset. To not be “on.”
We might go for a walk, eat out, or just stay in pajamas and watch a movie.
And other times, it’s just sleep. No questions asked.
I know they’ll make up the work.
I know they’re not “getting over” on me.
Because the goal isn’t to raise perfect students.
It’s to raise whole people.
People who can recognize when they’re not okay.
People who feel safe saying, “I need a break.”
I know not every parent agrees with that.
And that’s okay.
But I’d rather teach them early that their feelings matter…
Than to raise adults who never learned to rest until they’re breaking down.
So, am I too soft?
Or am I teaching them what real strength looks like?
Share your thoughts and opinions in the comment box.