Upbringing
Are you also lawnmower parents?
With the lawn mower through the world – not ideal for parents.
You know helicopter parents – but what exactly are “lawnmower parents” and why is this parenting style not good for parents and children?
Yes, of course it’s not so great when parents are told AGAIN what they’re doing wrong. After all, there are more than enough warning headlines in the media, with which loving gesture parents are now ruining everything and causing lasting damage to their children. It’s understandable when at some point many mothers and fathers just shrug their shoulders and have the feeling that they’re just doing everything wrong anyway.
But despite this sensory overload, it’s actually a good idea to check yourself if you might be a “lawnmower parent” – the problem is widespread and practically invisible to the parents themselves, precisely because they try so hard .
What does the lawnmower have to do with the child?
The catchphrase “lawnmower parents” sounds pretty brutal at first glance; in fact, however, it means very loving behavior: the natural wish of all parents that their own child should have it as good as possible and have as few problems and crises in his life as possible. Of course – who wants their own child to be heartbroken? And this is where some parents quickly put the “lawn mower” to work: They can see from afar when a problem is looming on the horizon and quickly get it out of the way. Like a lawnmower clearing the way for your own child.
Lawnmower Parents: Fewer problems are also a problem
That sounds like exemplary, committed parents – but in the long term you are not doing your child any favors. The bitter reality is that none of us can lead a life completely free of conflicts, problems and crises. Dealing with it properly, overcoming difficulties and also dealing with negative feelings such as anger, sadness and frustration are important skills that we need throughout our lives. But how is a child supposed to develop all these talents if well-meaning parents don’t allow any problems to be overcome in the first place? That’s why it’s better to leave your mental “lawnmower” behind – and be amazed at how well your child can cope in many cases and “mow” their little lawn on their own.