Parenting
How Does Your Parenting Measure Up? An In-Depth Quiz
by Jamie Thompson
Updated: April 21, 2020
Originally Published: March 22, 2016
Do you sometimes question if you’re navigating parenthood effectively? You’re not alone. In today’s digital age, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling short.
Everywhere you look online, there’s another article with alarming headlines: “5 Ways You’re Damaging Your Kids,” “An Open Letter to the Parent Texting While Driving with a Toddler in the Front Seat,” or “7 Potentially Hazardous Items in Your Child’s Lunchbox.” The deluge of parenting advice can feel overwhelming, leaving you anxious and questioning your abilities. With so much information available, one crucial question lingers: How does my parenting style compare to that of others?
Worry no more! In just a few moments, you will discover where you stand. This quick quiz will provide insights into your parenting approach—just be sure to answer honestly. No cheating! And if you feel unsure, perhaps take your results to the park and ask that seemingly perfect mom with the impeccably behaved kids for her opinion. Let’s dive in!
Quiz Questions
- When at the park with your kids, how often are you on your phone?
• More than 50%. The park’s dull, and my child’s slide antics aren’t that impressive. (2 points)
• Less than 50%. I only check urgent messages or see how many likes my “Amazing Parent” post has. (1 point)
• Not at all. I treasure every moment with my kids and avoid technology—except for locating organic produce deals. (0 points) - Do your children ever climb up slides?
• Yes, all the time! (2 points)
• Yes, but I loudly admonish them when they do. (1 point)
• No, that’s improper. (0 points) - What type of juice do you offer your children?
• Whatever is handy. (2 points)
• Only 100% fruit juice diluted with water. (1 point)
• Only homemade carrot juice with a hint of lime. (0 points) - How much screen time do you permit your children each day?
• I have no idea. (2 points)
• No more than two hours, mostly educational shows and games. (1 point)
• None. We embrace constant mindfulness. (0 points) - Describe your family’s sleeping arrangements.
• It’s a free-for-all; we turn into a tangle of bodies at night. (2 points)
• Co-sleeping is okay, but only on weekends. (1 point)
• We each sleep in our own beds by 9:30 and rise at dawn—no alarms needed. (0 points) - What music is allowed for your children?
• My 5-year-old can sing every word of “Hotline Bling.” (2 points)
• Only children’s songs and a bit of Adele. (1 point)
• Only classical music and Coldplay. (0 points) - What’s for dinner for your 4-year-old tonight?
• Character-shaped mac and cheese, yogurt, and a grape. (2 points)
• They’ll eat whatever I do. (1 point)
• Only organic, locally sourced meals prepared by my chef. (0 points) - If food drops on the floor, how long until it’s no longer edible?
• Until a pet or critter gets to it first. (2 points)
• The 5-Second Rule is my guide. (1 point)
• My child never drops food! (0 points) - What parenting style do you follow?
• What’s a parenting style? (2 points)
• Survive and Advance. (1 point)
• Nurturing-Authoritative-Disciplinarian-Montessori-Tiger Parent. (0 points) - How often do you find yourself comparing to other parents?
• Never. (2 points)
• Occasionally, just enough to stay inspired. (1 point)
• Other parents look to me for comparison. (0 points)
Scoring:
15 and above: Bravo! You’re excelling at parenting and are likely the envy of others.
5 to 14: Good job! You’re not the worst parent out there, but there’s room for improvement. Consider budgeting for future therapy—yours and your kids’.
Under 5: Yikes. The outlook isn’t great. It might be time to rethink your approach.
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In summary, parenting can feel daunting, but assessing your style through quizzes and resources can offer clarity and direction. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and it’s all about finding what works for you and your family.