As a physician and a Gen X mom, I’ve had the unique opportunity to observe millennial parents in action, and let me tell you, you are doing an incredible job. I see you, struggling with your spirited toddler, his messy hair flopping around as he attempts to escape the confines of the restaurant high chair. You glance around nervously as he lets out an exasperated wail. Your partner heads to the bar for a quick breather — good move. You whip out your phone to capture this moment, while simultaneously soothing the fussy baby strapped to your chest. Nearby, two older women shoot you disapproving looks. Are they irritated by your child’s outburst, your phone use, or perhaps both? I can only imagine the thoughts racing through your mind as you navigate this chaotic scene.
As your husband sets your wine glass before you, the toddler kicks the table, sending crayons flying and your drink splashing across the table. The baby starts crying, and the disapproving women nearby are only adding to your stress. I can feel the heat rise to your cheeks as you hurriedly try to clean up, calm the baby, and give your partner a pleading look to help with the now full-blown tantrum. All you wanted was a peaceful meal, a delicious burger, and a side of sweet potato fries, but instead, you find yourself asking for a to-go box.
While I sit across the room with my calmly behaving 5-year-old, I can’t help but empathize with you. Parenting is a challenge for everyone, regardless of generation. Thanks to my later-in-life third child, I’ve spent considerable time with moms like you. Yes, your reliance on technology and some of your parenting decisions may puzzle me, but in reality, we share the same core goal: to raise happy, healthy children—no matter how different our approaches may be. And let’s be honest, you’re doing a fantastic job, even when it doesn’t feel that way.
The Information Age of Parenting
You have so much information at your fingertips compared to when I had my first child. The online sharing of your experiences is as second nature to you as sleep schedules were to me. While you engage with countless pieces of advice on social media, it’s understandable that judgment can come along with it. Sorting through the plethora of information must be exhausting, yet I admire your commitment to not parenting in isolation. You may have friends and family nearby, but your vibrant online community is undoubtedly a source of strength during tough times.
I remember a time when connecting with other moms meant leaving the house, which was a daunting task for me due to postpartum depression. I often felt the pressure to appear perfect, even when everything was far from it. Your willingness to share the messy, unfiltered moments feels much more authentic compared to the idealized standards many of us from my generation tried to uphold.
Finding Balance in Parenting
I know that the judgment from others can sting, but remember: parenting is incredibly tough, and you are navigating it with grace. When you take a moment to post an update, it’s not a sign of neglect. Rather, it’s a brief acknowledgment of your own needs amidst the chaos. That little moment of connection is essential for your well-being as you juggle the demands of motherhood.
And while you might feel like leaving the restaurant in a hurry, don’t let that deter you from getting out. I’ve been there and understand the struggle. It’s hard to find that balance. While the challenges of parenthood may not necessarily ease over time, they do evolve, and so will you. Eventually, you’ll find your rhythm and enjoy those precious moments with your children, like savoring that burger and wine without a hitch.
Celebrate Your Journey
When you do, don’t hesitate to capture and share your joy on social media; those milestones deserve to be celebrated. If you’re interested in learning more about parenting challenges and resources, check out this excellent guide from the CDC for pregnancy and prenatal care. And for those exploring home insemination, consider visiting Make a Mom for more information. For additional insights, you can also check out one of our other blog posts here.
In Summary
Parenting is a challenge faced by all generations, and millennial parents are doing an exceptional job navigating it amidst modern complexities. Embrace the journey, connect with your community, and celebrate the small victories.