Hadassah Ben Ari Reflects on Parenting Fears During Summer Break

Israeli author and creator Hadassah Ben Ari, mother of seven, shared a candid post about her mixed emotions as the summer break nears its end. Writing from her home in Avishag Shar Yeshuv, she revealed that her main regret will not be losing patience or control, but rather the fear she feels as a parent. Ben Ari humorously described the exhaustion she anticipates on August 31, the last day before school resumes, including the futile attempt to clean the sand out of the family car and her hope that her youngest child will have quickly outgrown diapers.

She also discussed the small ways she plans to recover after the intense summer, such as scheduling a hair appointment to refresh herself after the constant demands of parenting. Ben Ari emphasized that parenting is not just about setting limits like screen time restrictions or teaching manners, but requires ongoing effort and self-work.

A significant part of her reflection focused on the balance between protecting her children and allowing them freedom. She admitted to being overly cautious, listing numerous safety warnings she gives her kids, which led one of her daughters to jokingly call her "Antiochus," implying she is strict and old-fashioned. Despite this, Ben Ari expressed hope to loosen her grip and learn from her children how to embrace more freedom and playfulness before the summer ends.

She concluded with a wish that by the end of the break, she will not regret holding back her children but instead will have learned to be a little more carefree herself.