Rethinking the Expectation for Constant Parental Engagement

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In recent times, a new image has circulated online depicting parents engrossed in their phones while their children sit beside them on the subway. Shared with the hashtag #modernparenting, the photo elicited strong reactions, ranging from disappointment to outrage. While some viewers criticized the parents for disconnecting from their children, we must ask ourselves: when did we collectively agree that parents should be completely devoted to their children every minute of the day?

It seems that no one bats an eye when a parent reads a magazine or engages in conversation while their kids play nearby, yet the moment a phone enters the equation, judgment abounds. Why is there this disproportionate scrutiny regarding cell phone use?

What’s more concerning is the behavior of individuals who feel entitled to capture and share images of families in these moments, often accompanied by a judgmental caption. An entire Tumblr page, Parents On Phones, exists to highlight such instances, with the tagline “Don’t tune out your kids when you turn on your phone.” This raises questions about the intentions of those who post these images—are they truly concerned about parental engagement, or are they simply using their devices to criticize others?

As a society, we need to recognize that both parents and non-parents are equally attached to their devices. While taking breaks from technology is beneficial, it’s important to understand that parents are not uniquely guilty of this behavior. In fact, they deserve the same grace and understanding as anyone else.

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In summary, it’s crucial to shift our mindset regarding parental engagement and technology. Parents are allowed to take moments for themselves without facing harsh judgment.

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