I see you across the restaurant, perhaps with your partner or simply enjoying the company of your little one, just like I often do. You’re engaged in a genuine adult conversation, free from discussions about Minecraft, Mario Kart, or endless YouTube videos. Maybe you’re lost in thought while your child is absorbed in their own digital adventure, the glow of the screen illuminating their face.
I want to assure you: I’m not judging you. In fact, I understand you completely.
I’m not watching you because I feel superior; I relate to your situation. Finding even a few minutes to connect with another adult can be incredibly challenging. And when that connection happens, it feels amazing—a refreshing splash of water on a parched sponge, revitalizing and nourishing our spirits. Sharing news, laughing, and simply being understood is what life is truly about.
As parents, we crave those connections. Life often becomes a monotonous routine: waking up early, heading to work, coming home exhausted, and juggling our kids’ needs. We give baths, prepare meals (though I use that term loosely), and listen to stories about characters like Enderman—who I still don’t quite understand, but somehow it’s a thing for my son. We tuck our children into bed, loving them fiercely, and then we slump into our evening routines. We scroll through social media or watch TV, letting another day slip by without meaningful interaction with the adults we cherish or even with ourselves. Both outward and inward connections are crucial—essential, even—for living our best lives.
So when those rare moments arise to engage in conversation with an old friend, a partner, or a family member, it’s perfectly okay to distract your kids for a bit. No, they shouldn’t spend all their time in front of a screen (I know this struggle well as a parent to a devoted gamer), but if a tablet or handheld game helps keep them occupied while you enjoy a moment of connection, embrace it. No guilt or shame necessary.
The generation before us may not understand. They might cast sidelong glances or voice their disapproval of technology and its impact on today’s youth. While it is important to teach our children proper manners—like making eye contact and putting devices away when dining—it’s equally important not to feel guilty about carving out time for ourselves. You do so much for your kids, showing them love and support. The next time you hand over that iPad, remember: you are the “Parent of the Year.” Your child is experiencing a nice meal out, which is an accomplishment in itself. And later, you can play a board game or go for a bike ride together. But for now? You deserve that title. You deserve to feel validated.
Let’s ditch the negative self-talk and embrace the idea that being a great parent includes nurturing our own lives.
Sound like a plan?
In case you’re curious, you might want to explore some excellent resources on home insemination here and here. Additionally, if you’re looking for information on IVF, check out this informative article from Mayo Clinic.
In summary, it’s essential for parents to prioritize moments of connection with others and themselves. Using technology as a tool to achieve this isn’t something to feel guilty about, but rather a means of nurturing your family and your own well-being.
Keyphrase: parenting and technology
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