Parenting habits and norms change over time, with each generation of parents redefining long-held roles. In some cases, these changes are based on new research, technology, and cultural trends. Or it could be a reaction to the ways of previous generations.
Millennials and young Gen Xers with children today are generally raising their children in a more conscious way than their own parents. For better or worse, they have far more information, advice, and opinion at their fingertips than their previous parents.
Because each generation has a unique perspective on the demanding job of raising children, we asked current grandparents in our Facebook community to share their thoughts on their current parenting practices. Here’s what they had to say:
Answers have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
I love the gentler parenting philosophies that are popular today.
“My kids are so into their kids, it’s great!” They use gentle parenting techniques, even with difficult personalities. It provides them with a healthy outlet and allows them to develop friendships as well. They are 100% better at her than me, but I had to do it alone with her 5 kids. I will always choose raising my child over raising my own! ” — Ann W.
But I worry that some parents today are too lenient with their children.
“Those who want to engage in gentle parenting need to thoroughly learn how it works if they are to achieve their goals of gentle parenting. Often people confuse it with permissive parenting. ” — marnie h.
It’s great to see dad working harder at home.
“What I like about it: My daughter is a hard-working, kind and wonderful mother, and my son-in-law is a wonderful, hands-on father who takes on half of the load very well. I hope all of our grandchildren have this kind of upbringing.” It will be.
Dislikes: Sad beige parenting. ” — Angela A.
I’m envious of the convenience of modern parenting.
“I wish Amazon existed back then. I would have been forever grateful just for having diapers delivered to me.” — Susan S.
It’s amazing how many kids misbehave in restaurants.
“I really like most trends and hope to live long enough to see what these little things become as adults. The vast majority of kids today are not emotional enough to have normal etiquette in a restaurant. I’m aware that it’s not in control, but I don’t understand what that means.” Reem J.
I think parents should let their kids be kids.
“A never-ending race makes kids anxious. In general, I think we need to lay off elite adolescent athletes, personal coaches, tutors, college prep classes, etc.” Let’s get back to enjoying our youth and stop focusing on our ‘future’ from the moment we emerge from the womb.” Dawn J.
I’m concerned about excessive screen time.
“I spend too much time on my phone!” — Susan F.
I think some parents would benefit from taking on a more authoritative role.
“Many of today’s parents are their children’s ‘friends’, so no one can control them.” — marilyn c.
I think parents can do more to encourage basic manners.
“Respect and manners are very important to me. Thank you very little. Not returning messages is also very rude. Another irritation is constant tardiness. You learn to be alive.
Spending quality time with children is also very important. Spending time outdoors is much more rewarding than spending time indoors playing video games. ” — Karen C.
I am disappointed that vaccination rates among children are declining.
“Children require minimal vaccinations unless there is a valid medical reason. Unvaccinated children are a public health nuisance and people without medical training Decisions should not be made that affect the population.” — Dawn J.
Many grandparents expressed how impressed they were with their parenting of their adult children.
Ippei Naoi (Getty Images)
I love being able to encourage my grandchildren to play outside and read books.
“My kids are very active and they play like kids should. They play outside in the dirt, ride bikes, and learn. Inside they play with toys. We hang out, play puzzle games, and read, but there is very little technology or television.” — Maria L.
I think more can be done to foster empathy, patience, and common sense.
“In a world that will soon be dominated by artificial intelligence and where our desires are met instantaneously, we need to take a step back and teach patience and understand that survival is not just about having everything we want, when we want it. It’s equally important to be considerate of your own needs and the needs of others. A comical post asked, “Are you worried about the rise in artificial intelligence?” The answer is, “Real intelligence is declining.” I’m more worried about what I’m going to do!” As parents and teachers, we cannot afford to lose creativity, empathy, and basic life skills. There will come a day when children will be forced into situations where common sense is required and there are no apps or devices available. ” — Eric R.
My children are doing a better job than I am as a parent.
“My kids are much better parents than I am. They’re doing a great job.” — Alan A.
“My daughter and son-in-law have two teenagers. They have had an A+ upbringing.” — Rose A. This post originally appeared on HuffPost.