While browsing parenting blogs and scrolling through social media, I stumbled upon a story about a mom who crafts a new Disney princess dress for her daughter each time they visit a Disney park. Seriously, every trip! I can’t help but think back to my childhood: where was the handmade attire then?
Reflecting on my upbringing, here’s what I don’t recall:
- I don’t remember my parents attending every single sports event or performance. In fact, I can vividly picture being dropped off at the curb and told to return two hours later. There wasn’t a parent in sight.
- My mom didn’t crash every classroom party or school assembly. Sure, they made it to a few significant events, like my second-grade violin recital, but the majority of my day was spent with teachers, not my parents.
- I went to Disney twice in my childhood, wearing a basic one-piece outfit from the clearance rack—not a custom-made dress.
- Words like “play dates” or “conscious uncoupling” didn’t exist in my world. Kids played outside, and when parents divorced, it was just that—no fancy terms.
- My parents weren’t tracking my every move or trying to be my friends on social media. I had my own phone line and, aside from an occasional check-up, they let me roam free with only a quarter for a payphone. Missing curfew meant grounding, plain and simple.
- My parents were just that—my parents. They commanded respect, set rules, and created boundaries. They weren’t part of my social circle, and I’m certain they wouldn’t have wanted to be Facebook friends if it existed back then.
- Birthday parties didn’t consist of extravagant catering or elaborate cakes. Costumes for Halloween were simple and came from the store, while Christmas gifts were practical and not over-the-top. We were perfectly content with what we got.
- I don’t remember being overscheduled with activities like dance, sports, and clubs all at once. Kids had time to explore interests and still come home to relax, without parents worrying about “exposing” them to every opportunity imaginable.
Let’s be honest: I’m just as guilty of trying to keep up with modern parenting trends. My kids are sometimes overwhelmed with activities, and we’ve been to Disney more times than I can count. I even make their costumes by hand. But we need to pause and consider the culture we’re creating for our children. The idea that handmade dresses are a necessity for a Disney trip is truly absurd. From extravagant birthday parties to designer invitations, we are teaching our kids that more is always better.
When does this cycle stop? If my mother saw me crafting dresses for Disney, she’d likely send me to bed without dinner and ground me for the weekend!
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In summary, while we strive to give our children the best, let’s not lose sight of the simple joys of childhood. It’s time to embrace a more relaxed approach to parenting, allowing our kids to grow and explore without the pressure of perfection.
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