7 Ways a Presidential Debate Mirrors the Parenting Experience

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Watching a Presidential debate can often feel a lot like parenting. Here are seven amusing parallels between the two:

  1. Deception is Commonplace
    Regardless of your political views, candidates rarely tell the whole truth. Similarly, as a parent, I’ve become a pro at bending the truth. I often find myself saying, “Sorry, sweetie, the zoo is closed today,” or, “I guess the Tooth Fairy forgot you this time. Maybe it’s because you didn’t share your toys yesterday.” (Gently places wine bottle in recycling bin.)
  2. Poor Listening Skills
    Just like children, candidates frequently fail to listen. During debates, they seem preoccupied with their notes, eager to counter any argument rather than engage in real dialogue. It’s reminiscent of the 157 times you have to remind your kids to pick up their toys or brush their teeth—how many times can you say it before they actually hear you?
  3. Pointing Fingers
    Debates are notorious for finger-pointing, often in an accusatory manner. Kids do the same. Pointing to their room means “Go to your room!” and pointing to you means “Don’t you dare talk back!” If my middle finger is directed at someone, it’s likely my preteen daughter who just rolled her eyes at me.
  4. Mastering Evasion
    Candidates are skilled at dodging straight questions, much like parents navigating tricky inquiries from their kids. Watch a mother dodge questions like, “Is Santa real?” or “Where’s my favorite toy?” It feels a bit like Bill Clinton circa 1998, trying to avoid a direct answer.
  5. Boring Monologues
    Much of a debate can lull you to sleep with its unending stream of promises and backtracking. It’s reminiscent of playing hide-and-seek for the hundredth time or hearing your child debate the pros and cons of different superhero underwear. Honestly, I’d rather change 1,000 diapers than listen to my kid explain the virtues of Spiderman vs. Superman.
  6. Condescension Galore
    Candidates often flash patronizing smiles at their opponents, which is a common sight among parents as well. We smile at our kids during their accomplishments, when they’re throwing tantrums in public, and even when we’re fuming inside. That smile becomes a secret weapon, fooling onlookers into thinking we’ve got everything under control.
  7. Awkward Moments Abound
    Every debate (and every Miss America pageant) has those cringeworthy moments that make you want to hide. Parents experience this regularly too. Just last week, my little one greeted a woman with brightly colored hair and then asked her if she was a wizard. Mortifying!

In the end, while we get a chance to elect new leaders every few years, wouldn’t it be great if we could redo certain parenting moments? Personally, I could use a do-over on the talk about where babies come from. For more insights into parenting and family planning, check out our article on home insemination kits or explore options for pregnancy through intrauterine insemination.

Summary

In conclusion, a Presidential debate and the journey of parenting share several amusing similarities, from deception and poor listening skills to condescension and cringeworthy moments. While we can look forward to new leaders, the complexities of parenting feel like they could use a reset.

Keyphrase: presidential debate and parenting
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