Growing up in the 90’s was very different than being a kid in the 21st century. If you are a millennial parent (born between 1981 and 1996), you probably understand the difference well. As the first generation to embrace new trends and unique practices in child raising, we are pioneering new trends and unique practices in parenting.
This, in addition to the technological revolution we’ve witnessed has changed the way we parent, making it very different from how our parents raised us. We have their guidance and knowledge, but we often find ourselves figuring motherhood out on our own.
This blog post provides an overview of the significant shifts in parenting among millennials and dives into the key trends that define our approach to raising children. Join us as we explore how we are redefining the landscape of parenthood.
Abundance of Apps
When I found out I was pregnant, one of my favorite apps was the pregnancy tracker. It kept me informed about my baby’s size in a fun and engaging way, often comparing the baby’s size to food item like an avocado! The app also provided insights into pregnancy symptoms I could expect and key milestones my baby would reach.
After giving birth, I used another app to log feeding times, sleep patterns, and more, ensuring my baby was on track. These apps made it easier to keep up with my little one’s needs efficiently while understanding their developmental progress. While some might find apps overwhelming and they’re definitely not a must-have, they can offer a more seamless way to manage day-to-day care in the fast-paced life we are currently living.
Information Overload
The internet is a double-edged sword. While it can be an overwhelming source of information that sometimes leads to confusion and anxiety, it also serves as a valuable resource for new parents seeking information, advice, and support. This wealth of information can empower parents, helping them feel more prepared to navigate motherhood. Gone are the days when our parents had to rely solely on word of mouth and limited resources. Today, parents can make informed decisions about raising their little ones, thanks to the extensive information available online.
Mental Wellbeing
Recently, there has been an increased emphasis on the mental well-being of both parents and children, acknowledging its crucial role in overall health and quality of life. Recognizing the impact of mental health on children and making it a priority can lead to happier and healthier lives for both parents and kids. When parents maintain good mental well-being, they not only benefit themselves but also serve as positive role models for their children.
Maintaining a healthy mental wellbeing is also especially important for new moms going through postpartum and transitioning through major identity changes. Incorporating mindullness and meditation is one technique to reduce stress and increase resilience and integrating such activities into the family routine can have a positive impact on the overall family. Other techniques include exercising, dedicating time for self care and counseling.
Increased Involvement of Fathers
Think back to your childhood—you probably don’t remember your father being as involved in childcare and household duties as fathers are today. When our daughter was born, one of my husband’s duties was swaddling, and he perfected it! He also took part in bathing, diaper changes, and bedtime routines—tasks that neither my father nor his father had ever done. This increased father engagement fosters a stronger bond between dad and baby, contributes to a more balanced environment, and supports mothers with the workload. This shift away from traditional gender roles in parenting empowers both mothers and fathers to pursue their goals.
Alternative Educational Models
With access to so much information and a variety of educational methods for children, millennial parents are exploring methods that best suit their family’s needs. These methods include homeschooling, outdoor based education, experiential learning, Montessori education and other forms of innovative educational methods. In response to the fast-paced and changing job market, these integration of innovative educational methods help millennial parents better equip their littles ones with the skills and mindset necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Conclusion
Looking at how millennial parents are pioneering the new way of raising children, what are your thoughts and experiences on millennial parenting trends? What changes have you applied in your household as opposed to how you were raised? How have these impacted your family dynamics?
We invite you to join the conversation and leave your comments below – your insights can help build a community of shared knowledge among fellow parents. Let’s learn from each other and continue to evolve in our parenting journeys. As you reflect on these trends and how they align with your own parenting journey, consider exploring further resources to support you.
At Madinat Mom, we offer personalized coaching services and comprehensive guides designed to empower new moms and moms-to-be. Our services provide tailored advice, practical tips, and emotional support to help you navigate the challenges of motherhood with confidence. Book your Free complimentary call Here!
