When a school mum wanted to keep the WhatsApp after graduation, this was my reaction
Sydney Morning Herald
by Lisa MouleFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A mother’s reflection on her exhausting experience navigating school parent group chats reveals a mix of frustration and appreciation for their role in modern parenting. Lisa Moule shares how these platforms, while essential for staying connected with school activities and other parents, often feel overwhelming and time-consuming. She humorously compares them to “virtual laundry,” highlighting the stress they can bring when trying to balance daily responsibilities.
Moule details her struggles with the constant demands of school apps and group chats, from deciphering cryptic messages about events and permissions to dealing with overzealous users who dominate discussions. She recounts anecdotes like a parent missing an important event due to medical circumstances and another using the chat as a personal diary, showcasing how these platforms can become both lifelines and sources of anxiety.
The article also touches on the gendered nature of these tasks, noting that mothers are often the primary participants in such groups, from organizing events to handling logistics. Moule reflects on moments where she felt drained by the constant pings and decisions required, even recalling an instance where she forgot she had sent a message about her child’s illness—a stark reminder of how these platforms can blur lines between personal and professional life.
Ultimately, Moule’s story highlights the double-edged nature of school parent groups. While they provide crucial support and connection for parents, their constant notifications and demands can lead to burnout. Her conflicted reaction to a proposal to keep the WhatsApp group open after graduation underscores the need for balance in how parents engage with these spaces—whether as tools for community or sources of stress.
The broader implications of this piece resonate beyond individual families, offering insight into the challenges of modern parenting and the role technology plays in shaping our daily lives. Moule’s experience serves as a relatable reminder that while school group chats can be vital resources, they also require careful navigation to avoid becoming overwhelming.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/25/2026