End of the school year stuff, too much?

Holy cow, I'm exhausted! As we get down to the end-of-the-school year the celebrations are coming fast and furious. Can you find time to always be there?

Here's why you might feel swamped: Because of a rising interest in rituals, ceremonies have proliferated, marking nearly every life transition—from preschool to college graduation—and making each the focus of festivities. As a result, families face a long list of must-attends—including rehearsals, class parties, tournaments, recitals, picnics and banquets—all in the few weeks leading up to summer, making this time of year the busiest season of all for many households, notes Sue Shellenbarger of The Wall Street Journal.

Fortunately, I have some flexibility at my job to be able to come in a little late or leave a little early when I have a kid activity. Sadly, many parents do not. But with so many end-of-the-year kid commitments, I keep joking that I’m going to have to quit my day job to keep up.

Still, there are some activities I just haven't been able to be at. Many of us working parents beat ourselves up for not getting to all of these events. It’s especially awful when our kids really want us there, points out mommy blogger Wendy Sachs.

Remember, this is the time to use your goodwill bank -- call in those favors you've done for other parents at work or at school to get some help with the driving. And, if you have to leave early during a child's class party or recital, closely watch the part you do see. If you can't stay for the entire recital make sure you speak to your child about the portion you observed: something like, "I enjoyed watching because you were concentrating so well.''

How are you handling the end-of-year madness? Are you find your workplace gives you the flexibility to attend school activities? If not, are you resentful?