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Why Moms Get the Blame: A Never-Ending Cycle
In 2015, the concept of shared parenting is gaining traction, yet moms still find themselves shouldering the blame for nearly everything. Take, for instance, a recent study that indicates children aren’t getting enough exercise, and — surprise, surprise — it’s once again the fault of mothers.
Sponsored by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, this survey aimed to explore how much physical activity moms engage in with their kids. As it turns out, between juggling work, household duties, and the general expectation to manage everything, mothers often lack the time to take their kids on those lengthy bike rides.
The survey revealed that the most common activities moms share with their children are eating dinner, watching TV, and tackling homework — the typical stuff crammed into the few moments they have together after work. Out of 1,154 moms surveyed, only about half had taken a walk, jog, or bike ride with their kids in the last week, and a mere 26 percent had played sports or danced with them. Interestingly, there’s no data on how many dads were busy training for marathons with their children after their own long day at work, likely because that question was never posed.
Conducted by Woman’s Day, the survey’s focus on moms alone raises questions about family habits in general. Researchers quickly attributed rising obesity rates among children to moms’ sedentary lifestyles, urging them to initiate family workout routines. But what about dads?
This study is part of the Commit2Ten initiative, which encourages families to commit to just ten minutes of physical activity together daily. So why is there an assumption that moms alone are responsible for making this happen? Why is it always the “bad” habits of mothers that come under scrutiny?
Moms are already expected to achieve the perfect pregnancy, breastfeed for extended periods, find the most Pinterest-worthy gluten-free lunch ideas, all while balancing work and raising empowered feminists. And now they are expected to manage this as well?
While I recognize the significant role moms play in their families’ health, we are not the only ones accountable. I’m exhausted from reading studies and articles that imply otherwise. My partner can enjoy fatherhood and still maintain his identity without much recognition, even for minimal efforts. I don’t seek accolades for doing the bare minimum, but I do want a fair distribution of responsibilities. I may be a hero in my kids’ eyes, but that doesn’t make me invincible.
For more insights on parenting and health, check out this article on home insemination, which tackles related topics, or visit Make a Mom for expert advice on fertility. For comprehensive information about pregnancy, you can refer to this excellent resource from the NIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
In summary, the narrative surrounding parenting often places undue pressure on mothers, overshadowing the shared responsibilities that come with raising healthy children. It’s time to redefine this dialogue and acknowledge that parenting is a team effort.