If you were born between 1980 and 1999, you’re considered a millennial. And if you’re one of the many millennials who have entered the realm of parenthood, brace yourself—things might not be as rosy as you imagined. Here are six hard truths about being a millennial parent today:
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Your Milestones Matter Less Than You Think
Let’s face it: society doesn’t roll out the welcome mat just because you had a baby. In fact, there are now flights specifically for adults who prefer to avoid the sound of children. As I navigate my own parenting journey, it’s become glaringly clear that my new title of “parent” seems to be more of a nuisance to others than a cause for celebration. People don’t want to witness breastfeeding in public, nor do they want to see your toddler at a fancy restaurant. And please, spare them the constant social media updates about your child.
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Your Child Is a Genius
Today’s kids have access to technology that would astound most of us. From coding lessons in elementary school to having Google at their fingertips, it’s no wonder they seem smarter than us. They’re learning about social justice and gender identity before they even hit elementary school! By the time they reach college, we might just be the generation they blame for the world’s problems. So, cherish those fleeting moments when they still think you know everything.
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The Bullying Landscape Has Changed
When I was growing up, teasing was manageable; you could confront it directly. But today, bullying has evolved into a digital nightmare. With social media, children can torment their peers anonymously without facing real-world consequences. Tragic stories like that of Emma Williams, who faced relentless online harassment, highlight the severity of this issue. As parents, it’s crucial to step away from our devices and engage with our kids. They need our support more than ever.
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Autoplay Is the Enemy
You spend ages selecting the perfect, age-appropriate show for your little one to watch. But as soon as the credits roll, the next episode starts playing automatically, leaving you scrambling to hit pause. Now you have to explain why the adventure of Sarah & Duck just got cut short. So, to all the designers behind streaming platforms: this feature should be reserved for adults binge-watching their favorite shows—not for kids!
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Kindergarten Feels Like College
As my child prepares for kindergarten, I find myself entangled in a web of waiting lists, school tours, and catalogs thicker than my college textbooks. It’s a surreal experience that makes you wonder if you should start prepping for dorm life instead. Is this really how it goes? It certainly seems like we’re jumping from baby bottles to college applications in the blink of an eye.
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Things Are Tougher Than Ever
Millennials are the first generation to enter adulthood facing more financial hardships than their parents did. With student debt through the roof, job opportunities dwindling, and mental health issues on the rise, it’s no wonder we’re feeling overwhelmed. Social media doesn’t help either, as we compare ourselves to others who seem to have it all figured out. In a world filled with uncertainty, it’s easy to see why many of us turn to coping mechanisms, including a drink or two.
Yet, amidst the chaos, we hold a significant role: shaping the future of humanity. So, even if we look tired and disheveled, we’re also more innovative and empathetic than previous generations. Our kids may one day share the stories of our parenting missteps, but they’ll also remember the unwavering love we provided.
So, here’s to my fellow millennial parents! It’s a wild ride, but let’s savor every moment while it lasts.
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