As parents, we’re bombarded with a mountain of expectations. We’re told we must do this and that, or else we risk being labeled as “bad parents” who don’t truly care for our children. Honestly, enough is enough.
There are certain contemporary parenting practices that I simply won’t engage in. Nope, not happening. My kids will be just fine without them, and so will I. So here’s a friendly heads-up: I’m firmly passing on the following trends:
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Organic Everything
Sure, I get it—organic food is all the rage. But honestly, my kids can handle a bit of modern food processing. Do I prefer organic when it’s convenient? Absolutely. But I’m not about to spend hours and a small fortune combing through every label. Hand me the Goldfish, please. -
Your MLM Sales Pitch at Playdates
Oh, look at that! My child needs me… for the third time in five minutes. No, I’m not interested in your latest multi-level marketing venture selling essential oils, trendy leggings, or whatever else you’re promoting. I’m going to find a way to escape that conversation faster than you can say “join my team.” -
Elf on the Shelf
Let’s be real: that little elf is just a creepy doll that gets moved around. I don’t have the time or creativity to pull off nightly antics, nor do I want my mornings consumed with elf searches. Plus, my dog would probably munch on it before I could even get it out of the box. -
Over-the-Top Birthday Parties
I get it, you want your kid’s birthday to be unforgettable. But I don’t have the budget for extravagant parties with bouncy castles or hired entertainers. A simple gathering at the park with store-bought cupcakes sounds perfect, and we can let the kids run wild while we chat. No theme required—who needs matching plates anyway? -
Gender Stereotyping
My sons are free to wear whatever makes them happy, even if it comes from the girls’ section. Unicorns and pink are for everyone, and if you disagree, it’s time to catch up with the times. Colors and interests don’t have a gender. -
Mama Drama
I’m not interested in the latest gossip about whose kid did what. It’s toxic and honestly, I’m just not here for it. When you start talking about others, you can bet that I’m keeping my lips sealed. I don’t engage in negativity about my family or friends, and I prefer to surround myself with people who feel the same. -
Fancy Vacations
When it’s time to unwind, we’re more likely to hit a state park than a luxury resort. We value experiences over extravagant trips and prefer a relaxed atmosphere without the pressure of constant entertainment. If you love that all-inclusive deal, go for it—but we’ll stick to our low-key adventures. -
Inflatable Halloween Costumes
Although they look fun, those inflatable costumes are a nightmare waiting to happen. I can already envision my kid’s costume deflating mid-trick-or-treating, leading to tears and frustration. No thanks, I’ll pass on that hassle. -
Glitter
As much as I once enjoyed glitter, it’s now banned in my home. Once it gets in your life, it never leaves. If you let your kids use it just once, you’re signing up for years of cleanup. No art projects with glitter on my watch! -
Plastic Weapons
Let’s face it: giving kids toy guns or swords is a recipe for disaster. They’ll end up hitting one another, and I don’t need that chaos in my life. My husband once bought them plastic swords, and I had to intervene as the fighting escalated. No more of that nonsense in my house!
If you’re curious about other topics related to parenting and home life, check out this blog post on home insemination and learn more about the journey of parenthood. Also, for further reading on fertility, check out this excellent resource from Science Daily.
In the end, parenting doesn’t require following every modern trend. My family and I are carving our own path, and that’s perfectly okay.