It is August and summer is practically over. It is time to get ready for school again. There are multiple lists to check: clothing, textbooks, supplies, transportation, after-school activities and more. You know the drill. However, there is one important matter that you don’t want to overlook – your marriage.
The challenges of school are hard on a marriage. Time, relationship,and communication can be consumed by the demands of school. The relationship between mom and dad can easily shift into one where scheduling and time pressure become the main focus.
Is your marriage ready for school?
Don’t be afraid to ask the question. Fathers, it would be best if you take the leadership role here. Make it a priority these next two weekends to spend time with your wife. Talk about the challenges of the new school year and how you will meet them. More importantly, talk to your wife about how she is doing. Is this coming year a transition year, one where there there are new teachers, new schools, perhaps a different house? Talk to each other about the obstacles this new year will bring.
Talk about your relationship. How is it? Are there rough spots, points of tension? Are there unresolved issues from the previous school year? They won’t get better on their own. This is a practical way to nourish and cherish your wife.
As I said, it is best if fathers would take the lead here. But if they do not, then mothers should help to schedule this important time. Don’t be pushy, but point out just how vital this conversation really is. Pray with each other and for each of your children. Identify the things you need to work on in your marriage. If you are not on the same page as the school year starts, you won’t magically become closer as the school year advances.
Is your marriage ready for school? Invest the time with each other, the Lord and his word to be sure that it is. Getting your marriage ready for school may be the best gift that you can give to your children and to each other!
One thought on “Parents, Is Your Marriage Ready for School?”
This is something that most parents of school children probably miss – great insight here! We’ve raised 3 children, and are now heavily involved in our grandson’s daily activities as he starts first grade. My own parents set a fine example of at least one easy way to put your suggestions into effect. Shortly before my dad arrived home from work, Mom told us it was fine to meet him at the door with hugs and kisses, then we needed to take off to somewhere in the house where we could do something quiet for about 30 minutes. This is when she had dinner prepared, and the two of them sat down to have something cold to drink and talk about their day. Then, at dinner, we were all ready for our regular family discussions with music in the background! We continued this right up through high school. Actually, I think the older we were and the more complex my dad’s job became, the more vital the talks became. Only later, could I realize what a valuable, consistent family tool this really was! My parent’s 50th wedding anniversary was an event to remember! And following some of their ways, my husband and I will celebrate our 50th, God-willing, in 4 years! 🙂