Raising children has always been a challenging endeavor, regardless of the generation. However, it’s hard to ignore the fact that there was a certain simplicity to parenting in the past compared to today’s era, which is saturated with endless information from the internet, offering countless ways to parent, some of which might be less than ideal.
Taylor Wolfe, a millennial mother, highlights this contrast as she engages in a rapid-fire question session with her own mother about raising children in the 80s. The differences in attitudes are stark.
One of the striking distinctions is the reliance on technology. Wolfe is amazed by how her mother managed without the ability to instantly Google every question. Her mother’s response captures the essence of the time: “What did we have to Google?” This interaction resonates with many, as the instant access to information has become a cornerstone of modern parenting.
The conversation also delves into the absence of modern conveniences like baby monitors. Wolfe’s mother recalls being the monitor herself, relying on her instincts and touch to ensure her child’s well-being. It’s a reminder that simplicity and human intuition were often the guiding factors.
Moving into deeper topics, Wolfe inquires if her mother ever felt the weight of having “only 18 summers” with her child and how to make the most of them. The response is beautifully uncomplicated: “It’s summer, I still have you.” This outlook reflects a different mindset, where the pressure of maximizing every moment wasn’t as prevalent.
The discourse acknowledges the impact of today’s information-driven culture. Many viewers chimed in, sharing how the abundance of information from Google and social media has contributed to parental anxiety. A professional in pediatrics even noted that parents nowadays tend to be more anxious.
While the desire to return to the past might not be universal, there’s a collective longing to integrate some aspects of the past mentality into modern parenting. The key takeaway here is that despite the advancements we’ve made, if our peace of mind is the casualty, it might be time to recalibrate and find a healthier balance.
@thedailytay My anxiety would have hated the 80s. Or maybe loved it? IDK! #fyp #millennialsontiktok #parenttok #momsoftiktok #comedyvid ♬ original sound