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- If Your Kids Graded You, What Would You Get?
by Jamie Parker
Updated: Aug. 12, 2015
Originally Published: March 17, 2015
Ever wonder how you’d stack up if your kids handed you a report card? For the “makes tasty meals” category, I’d probably score a solid F from my daughter—she’s always craving more cookies, yogurt, and, of course, pizza. But in the “creates a fun space in my room” category, I’d likely snag an A, especially if every corner sports a superhero touch! My little one can’t speak just yet, but I’m pretty sure she’s content with the food and shelter situation we’ve got going on.
In a recent segment on the Today show, some kids dished out F grades for their parents’ ability to “understand my mood.” One insightful child mentioned that parents often forget what it feels like to be their age. Busy parents, caught in the whirlwind of daily life, sometimes neglect to pause and recall what it’s like to be four, eleven, or even fifteen. This report card idea can open the door to meaningful chats about how our kids are feeling and what’s stressing them out—often things we might not even consider. One kid even pointed out that parents occasionally lose their cool for no apparent reason (shocking, right?). This kind of dialogue could really help bridge the gap in understanding emotions on both sides!
The kids were visibly uncomfortable when asked whether their parents discuss sex with them. One brave soul declared, “we don’t want to have that talk!” and the parents confirmed that their kids, generally aged 7-12, hadn’t yet brought it up. Still, A+ for at least addressing the topic!
The concept of a parenting report card is fantastic because it encourages ongoing conversations about family dynamics. Kids should feel that their worries are acknowledged. However, the areas where you might receive the lowest marks could often be the most crucial, as parenting doesn’t always mean making the popular choice. Plus, when you ask your child to “grade” you, you’re definitely inviting requests for extra ice cream and more Minecraft time!
So, how do you think you’d fare? Take a moment to reflect on your parenting report card right here!
This article was initially published on March 17, 2015.
For more hilarious parenting insights, check out our other blog posts, such as this one on home insemination. Also, if you’re navigating the journey of becoming a parent, Make A Mom is a go-to resource for all your at-home insemination needs. And for those curious about the IVF process, refer to this excellent guide on what it’s really like.
In summary, a parenting report card could serve as a fun and insightful tool to gauge how well you’re connecting with your kids. It’s a chance for reflection and to ensure that their voices are heard, even if they might grade you a bit harshly at times.