In 2023, the conversation around shared parenting responsibilities is louder than ever. You’d think that moms might finally get a little relief, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. Even when it comes to duties that should be divided among all family members, the burden still seems to fall squarely on mothers’ shoulders. A recent study highlights this issue, revealing that kids are lacking in physical activity—and, surprise, surprise, it’s all mom’s fault.
A survey conducted by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation aimed to assess how much time mothers spend engaging in physical activities with their children. The findings were telling: between juggling work, household tasks, and the endless list of responsibilities that come with motherhood, many moms simply don’t have time for three-mile bike rides.
According to the survey results, the most common activities moms share with their kids include eating dinner, watching TV, and assisting with homework—essentially squeezing in quality time during the brief moments after a hectic workday. Out of the 1,154 mothers surveyed, only about half had taken a walk, run, or bike ride with their children in the past week. Even more startling, just 26 percent reported playing sports or dancing with their kids. Interestingly, there’s no data on how many dads are out there running marathons with their children after a long day at the office, likely because that information wasn’t even collected.
While the survey was conducted by Woman’s Day, it raises questions about why only mothers were asked about their involvement with their kids. Researchers quickly pointed fingers at moms, suggesting their increasingly sedentary lifestyles contribute to childhood obesity and calling for them to step up family workout initiatives. But what about the dads?
This study is part of the Commit2Ten initiative, which encourages families to commit to just ten minutes of physical activity together each day. So why is there an assumption that mothers should bear the sole responsibility for making this happen? Why are only moms’ “bad” habits blamed for their children’s health issues?
Moms already juggle a multitude of expectations—from having flawless pregnancies to crafting Pinterest-worthy gluten-free lunches, while also nurturing ambitious, well-rounded children and monitoring screen time. Now, they’re also expected to coordinate family fitness?
I recognize the vital role mothers play in their families and understand that we all share the responsibility of raising healthy kids. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that we are not the only ones accountable. I’m exhausted by surveys and studies that perpetuate the idea that moms are solely to blame. My partner gets to enjoy fatherhood and maintain his identity while receiving kudos for the bare minimum of parenting. I don’t seek praise for simply doing what’s expected, but I do want to see a more equitable division of responsibility.
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In summary, it’s time to rethink the narrative that places the burden of family health and wellness solely on mothers. Shared parenting should be a collective effort, and the responsibility should be balanced.
Keyphrase: Blaming Moms for Family Responsibilities
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