Happy Friday,

Here I am again wondering when my daughter will take her first unassisted steps. Over the past week, she has continued getting more comfortable standing on her own unassisted. She even took a baby step with one of her legs the other day. It’s pretty clear that she’s strong enough to walk, her hesitation seems to simply be a matter of confidence. **Rather symbolic of life in general.

Does anyone have any “outside of the box” tricks to help her get over the final hump and walking? Reply to this email and let me know!

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One Big Idea

Setting Boundaries with Boomer Parents and In-Laws

In the world of modern parenting, millennials face unique challenges when it comes to balancing our parenting styles with the expectations of our [baby] boomer parents and in-laws. This clash of generations often manifests in disagreements over discipline, respect for children's autonomy, and understanding of new health diagnoses such as ADHD. For example, a friend of mine has struggled to make his older family members understand and respect his approach to handling his son's ADHD, in which he emphasizes empathy and understanding over strictness and compliance. This generational gap also extends to respecting children's personal space, and not forcing them to hug relatives or have their cheeks pulled if they are uncomfortable, a significant departure from the expectations of future generations.

We’ve talked about it before in a number of ways, but over the past generation there have been shifts in parenting philosophies, with millennials now advocating for our children's needs and preferences. This evolution in parenting is not just about changing techniques or approaches but also about a broader understanding of children's rights and individuality. Millennials are increasingly prioritizing our children's comfort and safety, even if it means challenging long-held family traditions or risking misunderstandings with older generations. This reflects a deeper commitment to nurturing a child's individuality and fostering environments where they feel respected and heard.

At the end of the day, we shouldn’t feel badly about setting and enforcing boundaries. It’s okay to clearly define what they look like regarding your child's upbringing and stick to them. This might include rules about physical affection, dietary restrictions, or discipline methods. Be consistent in enforcing these boundaries to ensure that they are respected by all family members.

Here’s a dad joke

What do you call a fake noodle?

Scroll to the bottom of the newsletter for the answer!

Time(out) for Memes

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