I’m writing this in the middle of a pandemic. In Kentucky, almost everything is closed because our governor, Andy Beshear, ordered as such.
We stan a calm and efficient governor. Our last one was a disaster. If you’re in Kentucky, you probably get what I mean.
At this point, the kids are doing work online and we have no idea of they will go back this year. I hope so. Julian is graduating from middle school in May or whenever.
When the kids were younger, I was probably a “helicopter mom”. Now? Not so much.
I figure these kids can use a bit of space (literally) and learn how to do things on their own without me being in their face all the time. I’m not always going to be there to remind them of things.
It’s good to teach your kids independence. They need that ability to figure out something to do when they’re bored and not cling to you as their personal source of fun. This is where slacker parenting comes in.
What is slacker parenting? This is my take:
-less worry about the little things
-giving your kid(s) more independence
-not hovering
-but yet remaining firm (my kids know there are things I won’t tolerate)
-and of course, love. Lots of it.
It took me a while, but after a few disasters and close calls, I’m mostly like….*shrugs*
Mom’s Not Feeling Great Today
I have two chronic medical issues-RA and migraines. Both have slightly held me back from continuing the ” helicopter mom” that I was. Sometimes, I just don’t have the energy. Stress exacerbates both of my issues.
The biggest joy of slacker parenting? Less stress for everyone.
Oh, and learned independence, an increased sense of humor, and possibly a better understanding of your kids.
Total win.
A Word About Neglect
There’s a difference between slacker parenting and obvious neglect.
When kids are neglected, it shows. It is different for every kid, but most appear in dirty/non fitting clothes, to not want friends to come over, may hoard food, and may display a range of emotions.
There’s usually other issues that go along with neglect- alcohol and/or drug abuse, physical/verbal/sexual or other kinds of abuse. Parenting standards are very low, if not non-existent. This is also where authorities probably need to come in.
I don’t promote neglectful parenting- this is a terrible idea. I do, however, promote stepping back, making sure everyone is in one piece, clean and fed. We only get to do parenting once. Let’s have some fun and relax while doing it.
Where do you fall in the realm of slacker parenting?
Picture of the kids is my own, meme is from my Facebook.