In a few weeks (maybe sooner), kids across the country will trade in their backpacks for beach bags. While kids couldn't be happier to do away with books and teachers' dirty looks, moms have mixed emotions when it comes to Summer vacation. Sure, there are plenty of perks that come with some time away from school — three months without carpool duty, last-minute science projects, and Common Core assignments [1] — but there are also a few downsides. Here, we take a look at all the things, both good and bad, that come with Summer vacation.
Source: Warner Bros. [2]
The last day of school arrives, and everyone is excited!
You actually can't tell who's happier [3] — you or your kids!
Source: Bunim-Murray Productions [4]
The first few days are filled with fun in the sun.
Source: Columbia Pictures [5]
You enjoy a trip to the beach.
Source: Warner Bros. [6]
You indulge in the best Summer food.
Source: Comedy Central [7]
A few weeks in, the kids start to complain.
Source: NBC [8]
You search the web for fun ideas, only to come up short.
Source: NBC [9]
So they turn to TV and video games.
Source: Nickelodeon [10]
You try to get them to go outside, but they refuse.
But you don't worry too much, because camp is just around the corner.
Although that's a whole other emotional roller coaster [11].
Source: NBC [12]
Giving you and your partner some time to yourselves.
Source: ABC [13]
But then you start to miss your little ones and long for their return.
Source: ABC [14]
They come home, and all is right with the world.
Source: BBC [15]
Until you start to see all those back-to-school ads.
In July, no less!
Source: NBC [16]
Which cause your kids (and you) to shed a few tears.
Source: Fox [17]
You try to get them excited by buying each of them a new outfit.
OK, more like five.
Source: NBC [18]
But even that doesn't stop the waterworks.
Source: ABC [19]
They cry so much, you almost want them to return to school.
Source: NBC [20]
You try to squeeze in a few last hurrahs before the first day of school.
Source: Paramount Pictures [21]
There's even a part of you that wishes Summer wouldn't end.
Source: Warner Bros. [22]
But on the first day of school, you push your kids out the door and enjoy some much-needed peace and quiet.
Source: Touchstone Pictures [23]