Matt Panter: Is anyone else dreading their child's secondary school transition?
It was a carrot dangling tantalisingly in front of you. Those halcyon days – the last few weeks at primary school – as you edged closer to the summer holidays.
You'd merrily skip into school, ready to rehearse for an end-of-year stage play, to practise for the three-legged race at sports day or to enjoy a raft of fun, craft activities.
And, for those growing up in the 80s, it was all in the knowledge that you had six weeks of time on your BMX or Grifter to come, alongside mornings watching Wacaday, while playing Mallett's Mallet and all.
But, many moons later, here I am now – the stressed parent. Times have changed. I am dreading the end of this particular term.
It's not even due to the added burden on your wallet when your child is off school – although finding things to do at low cost, especially in these challenging times, can be a major worry.