Happy Tuesday,

Something I struggle with in many aspects of life is imposter syndrome. I find that my internal dialogue is a constant back and forth of “am I qualified?” “will I be successful?”

I can usually snap myself out of that mindset with a little work, but parenting is an entirely new ball game. I continuously feel underprepared. I’ve spoken with hundreds of parents since starting Parenthood and while it should reassure me, a large problem I’ve uncovered is that most parents feel the same way I do.

We don’t have to feel like this. That’s why our team is developing a tool that will elevate the parenting experience and give us the confidence that we are good parents. Reply to this email for more information!

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One Big Idea

A Screen Time Dilemma

One thing I constantly find myself worrying about in today's hyper digital society is the debate around children's screen time. Recent research, including a notable study from JAMA Pediatrics, has ignited concerns by linking prolonged screen exposure to developmental delays in young children. At first glance, these findings might sound an alarm for many parents, painting screens as the primary antagonist in modern parenting. However, a deeper dive into the data reveals that the story is much more intricate. While there's evidence suggesting that children exposed to over four hours of screen time daily might experience developmental challenges, this group represents just 4.1% of the study's participants.

More crucially, the socio-economic context of these families cannot be overlooked. Many of the parents in this high screen-time category were found to be younger, economically disadvantaged, and in some cases, grappling with postpartum depression. This raises a pivotal question: Is the screen time dilemma truly about the screens, or is it a reflection of broader societal pressures and challenges that parents are confronting? The narrative around screen time, it seems, is as much about societal structures and support as it is about the screens themselves.

Takeaway:

• Quality Over Quantity: Not all screen time is created equal. Differentiate between educational content and entertainment. Encourage content that is interactive and fosters learning.

• Balance with Physical Activity: Ensure that screen time is balanced with physical activities. Encourage outdoor play, and other hands-on experiences to ensure well-rounded development.

• Understand the Underlying Issues: Before making judgments or feeling guilty about screen time, consider the broader context. Are screens a coping mechanism for other challenges? Addressing the root cause, whether it's economic stress or lack of support, can lead to more meaningful solutions than merely cutting down screen hours.

Trending Stories & Insights

• The star QB for the Duke football team has received plenty of accolades, but his mom keeps him humble before the start of every game by texting him this simple message

• Some useful advice from one dad to other fathers and husbands: “look around the house, analyze the situation and then just tackle the first thing that seems to be interfering with the peace of the household.”

• After feeling guilty for taking no time off after the birth of his first kid, this dad took 7 weeks of pat leave. He noted that his entire perspective changed regarding what it means to be a present parent as well as an active, contributing member of the household

Tip(s) of the Day

• Sure, Taylor Swift is responsible for propping up the economy, but did you know her music is also a 10/10 way to help put your kid to sleep? Here’s a playlist we use before every nap and bedtime to help get our daughter ready to snooze

F**k it, here’s a dad joke

Why did the computer catch cold?

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Time(out) for Memes

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