May brings a familiar end-of-school-year rush for many families. Packed calendars filled with events, activities, and deadlines often create a period some parents call "Maycember," likening the hectic pace to the holiday season without the festive atmosphere. This concentration of demands can leave mothers and fathers exhausted.
The term "Maycember," popularized by viral content creators, describes a month overflowing with recitals, sports tournaments, final projects, parties, and promotion ceremonies. It compresses many year-end requirements into a short timeframe, impacting typical family routines.
Parents say the chaos can feel overwhelming. Maru Acosta, a mother of two, told Good Morning America it truly captures the nonstop pace. Charlotte Shaff, also a mother of two, shared she has used the term for years to describe the intense schedule.
The end of the school year creates a disruption in structure for children, which can be unsettling. For parents, the shift brings logistical challenges including rearranged work schedules and increased childcare needs ahead of summer break.
Parenting during this time involves navigating the end of familiar routines and managing various demands. Studies show stress levels can rise for mothers and fathers, particularly those balancing full-time jobs with caregiving. This can contribute to parental burnout.
Parents shared strategies for coping with Maycember pressure. These include letting go of the need for perfection, leaning on partners or other parents for support, and prioritizing personal time for exercise or relaxation. Maintaining emotional regulation for both parents and children helps navigate the transitions.
Dr. Erin O’Connor, writing for Scientific Mommy, notes the end of the year is bittersweet. It marks growth but also the closing of a chapter, bringing feelings of both pride and grief.
For many, May parallels the intensity of December due to condensed schedules and numerous events. The shared experience of Maycember, however, can make it feel more manageable.
Sarah Shrader, the author of the Real Life Mama column, writes about the challenge of attending numerous events for multiple children, likening it to the pressure of holiday gatherings.
"But I’m not going to lie, when we finally get to the Christmas Day of May — the last day of school — this Mama will be more than ready for it," Shrader wrote.