A photo has recently circulated online, showcasing parents engrossed in their phones while their children sit nearby. The image was shared on social media with the hashtag #modernparenting, featuring two kids nestled between their parents on a subway in NYC, both adults seemingly absorbed by their screens.
The reactions to this snapshot have been quite intense:
- “This is a big problem—put those devices down!”
- “This angers me.”
- “Pitiful.”
- “Baby zombie time?”
- “Such a sad image.”
What many fail to consider is that these parents might be scrolling through cherished pictures from their family outing, organizing a babysitter, or even working. Or, perhaps, they simply want to check their phones for a moment while riding the subway—adults are allowed to do that, right?
When did we collectively decide that parents must spend every waking hour focused solely on their children, or else they’re deemed neglectful? There’s no outrage when a parent is engrossed in a magazine or when adults chat amongst themselves while kids are playing nearby. Why the double standard with cell phone use?
More unsettling is the fact that a complete stranger felt entitled to snap a picture of this family, post it online, and attach a judgmental hashtag. The irony of parents being shamed for using their phones is rich, considering that you’ll find people glued to their devices everywhere you go. Yes, we all have our attachments to technology, but why does the outrage escalate when it’s a mom or dad holding the phone?
There’s an entire Tumblr account dedicated to shaming parents who use their phones in front of their children. Parents On Phones exists to anonymously share photos of families and offer sanctimonious comments about their technology use. For example:
- “My daughter posing next to a mom who has no idea where her kid is.”
- “I love you, dad.”
- “Don’t worry honey, I’ll watch the kid while you look at your phone.”
One has to wonder what the person behind this account is doing with their kids while uploading photos of others to shame them. Could it be possible they’re also using their phone, perhaps even to upload these images?
We could all benefit from some time away from our screens. Parents aren’t any more guilty of tech addiction than anyone else. It’s essential to remember that the focus should be on the quality of engagement rather than the quantity.
If you want to explore more about parenting and technology, check out this post on our blog. It’s important to find a balance that works for each family. For those considering family planning, reputable online retailers like Make a Mom offer at-home insemination kits to support your journey. Additionally, Cleveland Clinic provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, let’s shift the narrative around parenting and phone use. Parents are people too; they deserve a moment to themselves without facing public scrutiny.
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