Parenting kids has never been easy. But, in modern times, it has become a challenge every parent wants to accomplish. To win this race, they make a major mistake: imposing the chaotic combination of “over-parenting + under-connection” in kids.
Here, a major parenting problem arises: Kids are raised by devices, and parents are stuck in a constant guilt loop, trying to be everything to everyone. Hence, handling kids has become much harder than it was 20 years ago.
Here are some parenting challenges of the 21st century and their expert-recommended solutions.
What are the Challenges of Being a Parent and How to Overcome Them?
Challenge #1: Kids Listen What They Want
Kids don’t listen to their parents. As a guardian, it might pain you that your children ignore your instructions or requests. Strong-willed kids are especially tough to handle because they don’t like to be instructed.
The primary reasons for this behavior are:
- They are striving for their independence.
- They feel disconnected from you.
- They feel lectured all the time.
These reasons are enough to tell you what you should do to solve this issue.
How to solve this?
You should change your tone. Instead of instructing them to do something, give them choices. Actively thank them when they listen to you and use affirmations like “Thank you for doing that!”
Challenge #2: Excessive Screen Time & Mental Health
Kids are digital natives. This is one of their most effective qualities, but it is negatively affecting their behavior and mental health. As per the research, online video games are causing desensitization and a lack of empathy in children.
Or in worse-case scenarios, they become a victim of online hate and harassment that alter their personality for life. Therefore, it is becoming tough for parents to protect them from the negative side of the internet.
How to solve this?
Following are some expert tips to reduce the screen addiction of your kids:
- Create tech-free zones and times. Like, don’t allow screens and gadgets on the dinner table.
- Monitor what content they are consuming through parental control on devices.
- Promote sports and physical activity.
- Most importantly, you yourself should not use your phone too much in front of them.
Challenge #3: Sleep Deprivation in Kids
If you notice abrupt changes in their mood and they appear more impulsive, it might indicate they are sleeping less than 9 hours. According to the study, children who sleep less are observed to have impaired cognitive functions.
How to solve this?
To get your toddler to stay in bed at night, you have to set their nighttime routine. Keep the bedroom cool, tidy, and dark. Play some LoFi songs or nature sounds to calm the environment.
Challenge #4: “I don’t wanna eat that” is Their Fav Dinner Time Cry
Kids now have access to order their favorite food (ultra-processed fast food and energy drinks) at their fingertips. So, they won’t love to eat your boring homemade grilled cheese sandwich or mashed potatoes for dinner. They are becoming picky eaters and parents find it really hard to convince them to eat something healthy.
Another challenge of parenting is dealing with the mindless eating habits of their kids. Either they are always hungry, or they don’t eat all day.
How to solve this?
Good parents are those who become role models for their kids. They might not listen to your forceful “Eat this salad or leave!”. But they will definitely follow if you lead by example. You can also include them in prepping meals with you so they learn about nutrition.
Challenge #5: They Lie Bluntly & Fearlessly
Lying is bad at every level. But kids nowadays don’t fear any consequence when lying.
There are multiple reasons for that:
- They want to dodge the punishment.
- They are testing the limits. They want to see how far they can push without facing consequences.
- They don’t want to face the negative feelings, and lying becomes their coping mechanism.
- They want to gain sympathy or attention.
How to solve this?
Take it as a golden advice for new parents: Instead of just focusing on the “bad” of lying, teach them the rewards of being truthful—like trust, respect, and the freedom to make mistakes. Over time, kids will develop a better understanding of the impact of their words.
Challenge #6: They Back Talk Too Much
If they misbehave or backtalk, the reason is much deeper than you might think. It might be their underlying craving for attention or the need for power that forces them to act out.
This habit can be annoying for parents, but you should address them as soon as possible. Otherwise, it will become their personality trait.
How to solve this?
You can’t control bad behavior with bad behavior. You are a parent so you have to show grace. Model peaceful and respectful communication. When you stay composed, you raise kids who know how to handle emotions.
Always calm yourself down first and then talk to them in a firm and loving tone. It is the major difference between modern parenting and traditional parenting.
Challenge #7: Raising Kids Has Become Expensive
Raising productive, sensible, and happy kids is becoming expensive as parents have to pay for their studies, food, clothes, transportation, and safety. According to estimates from Business Insider, the cost of raising one child in the US has reached almost $26,000 in 2024.
The rising inflation and joblessness are crunching the economy, and earning consistent income is getting tough for parents. It is one of the major problems families face today.
How to solve this?
The most effective way is to start with a realistic budget to track your income and expenses. You can buy clothes and shoes from thrift stores as kids will outgrow them soon. Plan free or low-cost family activities like park outings, hiking, DIY crafts, or movie nights at home.
Finally, What are The Parenting Challenges and Solutions?
Kids of every age are tough to handle. But children today are a serious challenge for them. With the constantly changing world of social media, kids have mental health issues. Their lifestyle has become unhealthy, which is affecting their behavior as well. These are some major challenges families face today. Parenting such kids demands patience, understanding, and a lot of unconditional love!