The Pendulum Begins To Swing Back?

It's been one of many consistent topics of conversation here at The Diner. That style of parenting that makes an icon out of a child and causes parents to live vicariously (voraciously?) through the accomplishments of their child. And it goes by a lot of names. Over-Mom. Helicopter Parents. Harvard-Or-Bust Parenting.

Whatever you call it, it appears that it's beginning to ebb. Books are being written about how awful these children are turning out. Studies are being done by university professors who are tired of being called by parents arguing grades. Even businessmen report that parents actually negotiate the terms of a job offer. This "ebb" is fabulous news for teachers, pastors, and anyone else who has to deal with these parents on a consistent basis.

The New York Times Sunday Magazine (May 31) had an article on this topic written by Lisa Belkin that had a few little nuggets of excellent writing and insight that I thought I'd share:

"But whatever you call it, and however it began, its days may be numbered. It seems as though the newest wave of mothers is saying no to prenatal Beethoven appreciation classes, homework tutors in kindergarten, or moving to a town near ther child's college so the darling can more easily have home-cooked meals. (O.K., O.K., many were already saying no, but now they're doing so without that feeling that a good parent would say yes.)"

After listing a few blogs and books that discuss this topic, highlighting that a movement may actually be taking place:

"By far the most chipper is Tom Hodgkinson, whose book 'The Idle Parent: Why Less Means More When Raising Kids' was just published in England...Pay attention to your own needs, he writes, back off on your children and everybody will be happier and better adjusted."

Once again, we're living in an age where common sense is cutting edge, huh?