The Lawnmower Parents
“You are right, I do fall down a lot. But that wouldn’t be true if I never stood back up.” – Richelle E. Goodrich
A few days ago, I had a conversation with a university administrator, and at some point, our discussion pivoted to the young men and women who are applying for college acceptance.
For the most part, this administrator was complimentary of the kids who are seeking to advance their education. He was pleased that many of them have the scholarly skills to perform well at the university.
However, at some point, he made a comment about the role parents are playing today.
“You know, Jimmie, I think you remember the term ‘helicopter parents.’ This is when the parents are hovering over their children like helicopters overseeing all parts of their lives. This also means that they are flying them around the city to all their events, from dance lessons to soccer matches.’”
He went on to say, “I am seeing something different today … they are more like ‘lawnmower parents.’”
The Lawnmower Parent
This university leader stated that “lawnmower parents” take a different perspective because not only are they overseeing all aspects of their children’s lives, but they are also going so far as plowing the path for their children to succeed.
Here are some examples of the actions taken by lawnmower parents …
A mother may call the dance studio director and demand that her daughter is placed on the advanced team.
A father may approach the football coach and urge him to give his son more playing time while reminding him of the big monetary donation he gave to the program.
The parents may hire a professional service to complete the college application for their teenage child including writing the essay for him/her.
In essence, a lawnmower parent is looking to mow down any potential hardships or inconveniences that their child might face.
Are you a lawnmower parent? Here are some signs …
You do their homework.
When conflict arises, you take care of it for them.
Whatever they demand, you acquiesce.
You tell them what to eat and how much of it.
You do everything possible to help them avoid negative consequences.
Ready for Life
As a parent of four children, I must admit that on several occasions (perhaps too many), I practiced the lawnmower parent mentality. I wanted them to avoid any hardship, so I intervened to make things better, such as paying for an item that I knew was more a want than a must.
The other important piece for me is remembering the many years as a child I committed to migrant work. While I know this work was difficult for me, it was also an experience that instilled a tough work ethic, one that helps me today when I encounter difficult times.
As I reflected on the comments from this university administrator, there is no doubt that they have merit. I’m sure there is a balance between helping our children succeed and knowing when they must do things on their own, even if it means falling short of expectations.
However, as it is true with parenting duties, finding this happy balance is much easier said than done.
See you next week, my friends!
Inspiring Quotes
“All of us learned how to walk by failing.” – J.R. Rim
“You become stronger, wiser, and more resilient each time you suffer a defeat.” – Germany Kent
Homework Inquiry
During the next week, here’s your homework inquiry: What does it mean to let go?
I use this opportunity to share with you a unique story and a couple inspiring quotes. Oh ... as a professor at heart, you guessed it, I have a homework inquiry for you. This is a powerful question that might just trigger you to take action on something that really matters in your life. If you feel the Catalyst Newsletter brings benefit to you.