Karla Smith recently experienced mom-shaming while flying with her two children. Here’s how the situation unfolded.
For many parents, the hope is that their little ones will sleep through the flight. But, as any seasoned traveler knows, the moment they awaken, chaos often ensues. Kids demand snacks, coloring supplies, and screen time, leaving parents wishing they could escape the embarrassment that comes with their children’s antics. Private jets might be the solution for those who can’t handle typical toddler noises.
Karla, a mother of a toddler and a nine-month-old, recounted her recent travel experience: “We had to wake up at 4:00 AM to catch our flight. While on the plane, my daughter started making sounds to entertain her baby brother, and the woman sitting behind us said, ‘Is that absolutely necessary?’” In response, Karla’s husband turned to her and quipped, “Well, there are plenty of things three-year-olds do that aren’t absolutely necessary.”
Karla, known for her role as the cunning and fierce Laurel Castillo on ABC’s How to Get Away with Murder, is no stranger to challenging situations. However, when it comes to her children, she takes a protective stand. The stress of flying with kids is magnified by the challenges of the pandemic, leading to heightened emotions.
In a moment of frustration, Karla admitted, “I let my mama bear instincts take over and confronted her, which I don’t recommend. I said, ‘Is it absolutely necessary to dye your hair black and wear those ugly boots?’”
Despite the chaos, Karla is now thriving in a comedic role on the ABC sitcom Home Economics, which explores the dynamics of three siblings with varying financial situations. She appreciates the opportunity to discuss motherhood candidly, sharing experiences such as pumping and the challenges of parenting.
During the pandemic, Karla found herself reevaluating her approach to parenting and work. With the pressures of balancing home life and her career, she learned to embrace short naps and adjusted her expectations around screen time for her kids. “Before COVID, I was a no-screens mom, but that changed quickly,” she noted.
While her sitcom may not dive deep into the economic struggles many face, it does touch upon financial disparities with humor. Karla emphasizes the importance of discussing personal finance openly, a topic often shied away from in society. “I come from a family that talked about money openly, unlike my husband’s family. It’s such a vital part of life; why don’t we discuss it more?” she questioned.
This situation highlights the need for open conversations about parenting, finances, and the struggles faced by women during COVID. For more insights on family planning and resources, you can check out this informative blog post on home insemination here.
Summary
Karla Smith faced mom-shaming while flying with her young children, prompting a candid reflection on the challenges of parenting during travel. As she navigates the complexities of motherhood, she also embraces her new role in the sitcom Home Economics, where she addresses issues like motherhood and financial discussions.