The trouble with a migratory lifestyle — internal or external — is that there’s little respite while raising children.
Whereas we might have had grandparents, extended family or community to rely on had we stayed close to our roots, for those of us who moved far away for work or relationships, there is little relief.
And, unfortunately, when we do finally spend time with relatives, travelling from afar, during school holidays, this in itself becomes a source of stress, as we feel ourselves constantly under scrutiny as to how we are raising our children.
Can we live up to expectations? Will their academic performance be deemed adequate? Will their behaviour simply cause alarm? If we hope for time off, there is none. This thing called parenting is such hard work.
Last modified: 1 June 2023
