Your cart is currently empty!
Why Moms Always Get the Blame: A Never-Ending Cycle
Updated: Sep. 15, 2023
In 2023, the concept of shared parenting is more popular than ever, so you’d think moms might catch a break. But nope, that’s not the case. Despite the responsibilities that should be shared among all family members, the burden often falls squarely on moms. A recent study has revealed that kids aren’t getting enough exercise, and guess what? It’s somehow all mom’s fault.
The Alliance for a Healthier Generation recently sponsored a survey to assess how much time mothers spend on physical activities with their children. It turns out that between work commitments, household chores, and being blamed for everything under the sun, moms barely have time to fit in a quick three-mile bike ride.
The survey revealed that the top three activities moms do with their kids are preparing dinner, watching TV, and helping with homework. You know, the quick moments squeezed into an average weeknight after work. Out of 1,154 moms surveyed, only half reported going for a walk, run, or bike ride with their kids in the last week, and a mere 26 percent had played a sport or danced with them. Interestingly, there’s no data on how many dads were out there running marathons with their kids after a long day at the office. Why? They didn’t bother to ask.
The survey, conducted by Family Today, seems to focus solely on mothers, which raises questions. Why not inquire about family habits as a whole instead of placing the spotlight exclusively on moms? Researchers quickly pointed out that the sedentary habits of moms are contributing to rising obesity rates in children, suggesting that moms need to take charge of family exercise routines. But what about dads?
This study is part of the Commit2Ten initiative, which encourages families to engage in just ten minutes of physical activity together each day. So why is it assumed that moms should shoulder the responsibility of making that happen? Why are only their “bad” habits singled out as harmful to kids?
Moms are already expected to have perfect pregnancies, breastfeed for extended periods, scour Pinterest for the ultimate gluten-free lunches, find a balance between work and motherhood, monitor screen time, and maintain a cheerful disposition to avoid emotionally scarring their children. Now we have to juggle this fitness ball too?
I understand that moms play a vital role in their families and are responsible for raising healthy kids. But we’re not the only ones accountable, and I’m tired of reading studies and surveys that suggest otherwise. My partner gets to be a dad while still maintaining his identity, and he often receives praise for minimal efforts. I don’t seek accolades for doing the bare minimum, but it would be nice to see a more equitable distribution of parental responsibilities. I may be a hero to my kids, but that doesn’t mean I’m superhuman.
For more insights on parenting and home insemination, check out one of our other blog posts here. If you’re curious about home insemination, Make a Mom is a great resource. Additionally, UCSF’s Center offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, it’s high time we start sharing the load of parenting responsibilities more equitably. Moms are often unfairly blamed for issues that should involve the whole family. Let’s change the narrative and recognize that parenting is a team effort!