FLAT OUT
We’ve got 4 kids in 4 different schools & it’s so hectic, says Abbey Clancy – & the intense mum task that makes it worse
And the reason why the family love their busy schedule
ABBEY Clancy shared an insight into her family's busy life as she discussed her kids' school schedule.
The 38-year-old model discussed her "hectic" routine with husband Peter Crouch, 43.
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The pair broke down their "intense" schedule on the latest episode of their podcast The Therapy Crouch.
When the couple were asked how it has been having their kids back to school, Abbey summed it up as "hectic."
Abbey shares daughters Sophia Ruby, 13, and Liberty Rose, nine, and sons Johnny, six, and Jack, five, with her former footballer husband.
The couple regularly share glimpses into their family life on their social media platforms, and joked about how busy their routines now all their kids are in school.
Read More On Parenting
"It’s really intense having four kids in four different schools," Abbey explained.
Not only does the set-up require numerous drop-offs and pick-ups for the parents, it also means Abbey is part of four different WhatsApp groups for school mums.
The couple said that they spend most days "delivering children around different places."
They reflected fondly on the days when it was just their oldest child who had so many extra curricular activities to attend.
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"Obviously with the big age gap with Sophia it was [just] ferrying one around but now it’s impossible," Abbey explained.
"Thank God we’ve got friends in the area whose kids are doing the same thing so we can share it."
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While Peter added that he actually enjoys attending his kids hobbies, such as his daughter's netball games, Abbey pointed out that it's the process of getting them out of the house that is the difficult part.
"It’s the murder before netball, having a meltdown about the outfit, Liberty’s outfit, she’s hysterical, it’s ridiculous," Abbey said.
"If you’ve [only] got one child or two, I envy you, or if you have none," joked Peter.
Their producer joked that the pair are like "proper soccer moms with all the kids in the back of the van."
Abbey and Peter also praised the good weather for keeping them sane on the school holidays.
Different parenting techniques
Here are some widely recognised methods:
Authoritative Parenting
This technique will often foster independence, self-discipline, and high self-esteem in children.
It is often considered the most effective, this technique is where parents set clear expectations - enforcing rules - whilst also showing warmth and support.
Authoritarian Parenting
This is opposite to authoritative parenting, as it is where the parent sets high demands but is low on responsiveness.
It involves ensuring the child is obedient and often employ punitive measures. While this can lead to disciplined behaviour, it may also result in lower self-esteem and social skills in children.
Permissive Parenting
Permissive parents tend to be indulgent and lenient, often taking on a role more akin to a friend than an authority figure. They are highly responsive but lack demandingness, granting children a lot of freedom. This method can nurture creativity and a free-spirited nature but may also result in poor self-regulation and difficulties with authority.
Uninvolved Parenting
Uninvolved or neglectful parenting is marked by low responsiveness and low demands. Parents in this category offer minimal guidance, nurturing, or attention. This often leaves children feeling neglected, which can have significant negative effects on their emotional and social development.
Helicopter Parenting
Helicopter parents are extremely involved and overprotective, frequently micromanaging their children’s lives. Although their goal is to protect and support, this approach can hinder a child's ability to develop independence and problem-solving skills.
Free-Range Parenting
Free-range parenting encourages children to explore and learn from their surroundings with minimal parental interference. This method promotes independence and resilience but requires a safe and supportive environment to be successful.
Attachment Parenting
According to , Attachment parenting focuses on physical closeness and emotional bonding, often through practices such as co-sleeping and baby-wearing. This approach aims to create secure attachments and emotional well-being, but demands significant time and emotional commitment from parents.
Each of these parenting techniques has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. The key is to find a balanced approach that aligns with the family's values and meets the child's needs for a healthy, happy upbringing.
"We’ve been so lucky with the weather, it’s been great so we’re up and out," Abbey explained.
"The kids have been doing all their fun stuff, I’ve really enjoyed [it]."
Peter added that their children's busy weekend schedules is actually a blessing in disguise.
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"I actually enjoy that part of our life now," he explained to their listeners.
"The whole weekend is taken care of."
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