Would you go to Canada for a week during child's GCSE exams?

[Dramatic]

DH's friend lives in Canada. He is getting married next June and has invited me and DH. We have 4 kids, ages will be 19, 16, 14 and 6.

I don't know this friend well at all, met him once at a party and barely said two words to him so I'm not too fussed if I miss the wedding but I would love to go to Canada.

My 16yo would be in the middle of her GCSEs and so I'd told DH I don't think I can leave her during such a stressful time, our youngest DD has also never been left for more than one night.

He says they'll be fine and I should go, they'd be looked after by grandparents and eldest DD. We don't usually have the opportunity for long haul holidays. Would you go?

My oldest would have been fine to leave in hindsight but I still wouldn’t have because I didn’t know how he would feel in the midst of them. We all know teachers put pressure on students and make them feel it is the be all and all (even though it’s not) but I liked being there for chats and an escape for ds where we could chat, play a game. Just being around in case they need you.

It would totally depend on the child and the competence of the grandparents.

100000-% not
This is a critical time and kids need their parents
my DD would be devastated and feel unsupported at a cruvial time if I left her - and she’s independent and resilient
it is a great big no

No chance.

No, definitely not.

No I wouldn't go

Nope

Absolutely not - the message you're sending is that a holiday you really fancy is more important than your child's significant exams.

No

No, I'm sorry but I wouldn't. You can visit Canada another time.

No

Absolutely not. Mine were fine, they didn't get too stressed, but they did appreciate us being around for a chat afterwards. It was also good to set them off with a hug and encouragement.
So I agree with the rest of the board!

No, definitely not. A week isn't very long anyway. I'd go another time and for 2-3 weeks.

Yes, that's good advice.

I wouldn't. Also, going to Canada for only a week is a huge pity. If it's somewhere you've always wanted to go, then go later, for longer, and take the kids.

What date would you be away?

Is it across the exams? Would you be back for prom?

I (we) go away most years for a weekend or two without our kids. I'm not sure I would if it meant not being here for GCSEs.

The more I think about it, the more I can't believe your DH is even suggesting this.

It doesn't matter if your DD is super calm and confident and organised. It doesn't matter if she could handle a week of exams without the support of a parent. The point is she shouldn't have to. What if she has a really difficult day? I can't imagine choosing a holiday over being there to give my DC a big hug and help them to process it and stay positive.

Nope

My DD is in Year 11, would be zero chance of me leaving her during that period.

If your husband wants to go and it doesn't impact on finances or childcare, that would be no issue for me. But i can't believe he's even suggested it

Dates?
Exams are spread out and finish mid-June and there's half term as well.

I personally wouldn't have considered it with my kids but many are self motivated and would be fine with grandparents.

Absolutely NO - wouldn't even remotely consider it in any way

This ⬆️.
Even the most calm and motivated child can have a bad exam.

100% No

Definitely not.

Absolutely not.

I'm an exams officer (8yrs so far, lots of experience) and I often have students who are normally absolutely fine, who go to pieces and they need a parent - generally their mum.

I also have my own DC doing exams next summer.