Worrying comes naturally when you become parent – it’s part of the package. However, the fears parents of today have are probably somewhat different to the things that kept parents up at night, a couple of decades ago.
According to studies done by the Pew Research Centre – race, wealth and education influence what will bother the millennial parent. Here’s however a few of the common fears millennial parents are worried about.
- Their kid will be bullied some day
Bullying is prevalent across American schools. Round about one in seven children in kindergarten through high school have either been a victim of bullying or have been a bully, yet it is sometimes overlooked as a normal part of growing up. Bullying can have serious consequences later in life. In this day and age, bullying has taken another form – cyberbullying – which can certainly not be overlooked.
Parents should be empathetic and should really listen to their children as this could lessen the impact of bullying. Encouraging your child to find their passions could assist with their self-esteem – this will go a long way.
- Their child won’t get good opportunities in life
We live in a highly competitive world full of economic uncertainty. The cost of living is on the rise and so is the rate of unemployment. This makes many parents concerned about how their children will fare in the future.
Don’t put to much pressure on your child or yourself but do try and give them the foundation that will assist them in reaching their full potential in this highly competitive world.
- Their child will grow up with a sense of entitlement
There is even something known as “entitled kids phenomenon” and it’s on the rise. Overprotective parents are often seen to be the direct cause for this.
Every parent wants to give their child the best but that does not mean you have to do everything for them. Don’t fall in the trap of competing with other parents in terms of providing for your child – just give them the necessary and encourage them to explore the ordinary like nature and the outdoors as opposed to a room full of toys.
- Their child will be hurt in some way i.e. kidnapped, raped, molested
Your basic instinct is to protect your child and our fears are only increased by the fact that incidents relating to children get a lot of attention in the media, which can make them seem more common.
We can’t live our lives in fear but it does help to maintain a supportive and tight relationship with our children so that we can keep the channels of communication open. This way if your child is uncomfortable about something that’s happening to them, the chances of them confiding in you are far higher.
- Their child’s health
Obesity seems to be top of this list when it comes to parents concerns about their kids, thanks to mindless consumerism and irresponsible eating habits.
This is something you can take control over – just by explaining to your child how targeted marketing works and how it can lead them to make bad decisions for their health.
To assist your child in avoiding excessive weight gain, retain a healthy diet and active lifestyle and be sure to practice what you preach – you are your child’s role model after all!
Are there other fears you have as a millennial parent?