In today’s world, it seems like we can’t scroll through social media or read an article without encountering yet another critique aimed at parents. Whether it’s about letting our kids use devices at dinner or being accused of over-scheduling their activities, the blame game is relentless. When crises arise, the chorus of voices criticizing parents grows louder, often lamenting how “kids these days” are lacking the guidance that previous generations supposedly provided.
Let me be clear: this narrative is absurd. As a child of the 80s, I can acknowledge that while there were some fantastic aspects of growing up back then, there were also significant downsides. Boys were often told to “man up,” and girls were discouraged from dreaming big, facing societal norms that were often dismissive or harmful. Bullying was rampant, and risky behaviors among teens were commonplace, yet those were brushed off as just part of growing up.
Yes, the past had its positives, and many parents from earlier times did things right. However, did they care more or engage more? Not necessarily. My generation was labeled the first group of “latchkey kids.”
Today, after events like school shootings, the blame directed at parents intensifies. We’re told we allow too much screen time, we don’t encourage outdoor play, and we fail to volunteer enough at school. It’s exhausting.
Let’s be real. Parents are acutely aware of our shortcomings. We juggle hectic schedules to provide our children with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive in a rapidly changing world filled with social media challenges that previous generations didn’t have to navigate. Yes, we thrive in a playdate culture, but many kids still run around their neighborhoods, finding friends the old-fashioned way.
There are countless reasons a parent might appear “disengaged” to an outsider. Maybe a parent who misses a band concert works nights or is caring for an ailing relative. The parent who forgets that homework slip might be dealing with their own personal challenges. And a parent who allows their child to play on a tablet at dinner might have spent the entire day engaging in meaningful activities outside the home.
The reality is, you can’t judge a situation without knowing the full story. It’s time to cut the judgments and assumptions. A troubled teen should not have access to dangerous weapons, and blaming a whole generation of parents for societal issues is unjust. Even the most devoted parents can have children who make poor choices. Take the case of Nicholas Cruz; his mother sought help for him while she was alive, illustrating that even with the best intentions, things can go awry.
Furthermore, even children from families that promote kindness can sometimes slip up. They’re still kids, after all.
Look, today’s parents are not perfect—we never claimed to be. But neither were our predecessors. We all strive to do our best, and we recognize that parenting is an incredibly important job. As you reminisce about the past, please spare us the nostalgia and blame.
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In summary, the cycle of blaming parents for every societal ill is both unproductive and misguided. Parenting is challenging across all generations, and while we may not be perfect, we are trying our best to raise good, kind children.
Keyphrase: Stop Blaming Parents
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