Sanctimommy, Noun
A self-satisfied, often condescending individual who showcases their parenting style through subtle digs at others, highlighting their perceived shortcomings.
Synonyms: Know-it-all, Fun Sponge, Judgmental Parent, Overachiever.
Physical Characteristics
While Sanctimommies come in all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds, they do share some common gestures that make them easier to spot:
- Raised eyebrows of disapproval
- Pursed lips signaling judgment
- Pointing fingers aimed at others
- Loud sighs of exasperation
- Tightly clenched buttocks (because who wouldn’t be tense?).
Common Environments
Sanctimommies thrive in various settings where they can dispense their unsolicited advice and critique others:
- Parks
- Playgroups
- Grocery stores
- Target (both in the aisles and parking lot)
- Parenting websites (especially those with comment sections!)
- Social media platforms like Facebook
- Daycares
- Schools (particularly during drop-offs, pick-ups, and events)
- Birthday celebrations.
Social Interactions
These individuals are drawn to the spotlight of social gatherings, often steering conversations to center around their own experiences. Here are a few telltale phrases you might hear from a Sanctimommy:
- “You should feel SO GRATEFUL.”
- “My kids would never behave like that.”
- “I didn’t bother reading that; it’s just nonsense.”
- “I’ve never dealt with this, it’s ridiculous.”
- “Ugh, this is just absurd.”
Trigger Topics
Certain subjects can set off a Sanctimommy, prompting them to inject their own parenting philosophies into the discussion, such as:
- Any online parenting discussion
- Vaccines, organic diets, screen time, or sleep training
- Acknowledging the tiredness of parenting
- Hiring a babysitter
- Nostalgia for pre-parenting freedom
- Suggesting that maybe life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows.
- Mentioning it’s 2 p.m. – can we have wine yet?
- Humor in parenting situations
- Parenting without a well-documented philosophy
- Sharing humorous parenting e-cards on social media.
Warning
Avoid direct confrontation with a Sanctimommy. While they’re not physically threatening, their reactions can be highly unpredictable. Signs of agitation include self-pity, preachiness, excessive use of ALL CAPS, and the tendency to reference celebrities in poorly constructed arguments.
This guide serves as a lighthearted look at a not-so-lighthearted phenomenon in the parenting world. If you’re seeking more on this topic, check out our post on home insemination for a different perspective on family building. And if you’re curious about resources for pregnancy and home insemination, MedlinePlus has excellent information.
In summary, spotting a Sanctimommy can be as easy as recognizing common gestures and phrases that reflect their self-satisfied nature. While their presence can be overwhelming, understanding their triggers and environments may help you navigate interactions more smoothly.