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The word “millennial” often has a negative connotation. I expected to hear criticisms about the high levels of entitlement, dependency, and obsession with electronics that we may unknowingly encourage in our kids due to our own unresolved issues.
While entitlement and technology were indeed discussed, I was pleasantly surprised to learn about the many things millennial parents are doing right. It turns out that the values millennial parents are passing on are helping nurture a new generation of outstanding leaders.
Gone are the days when the phrase “children should be seen and not heard” applied. Millennial parents are changing the way we respect young people. They have a quiet confidence that allows them to listen to and value their child’s input, even if it differs from their own. This approach helps children gain the confidence to think independently and express their unique ideas.
I was reminded of calling our kids in from playing the evening before when they happily shouted, “not yet!” Taking a few moments to empathize with and listen to them was enough to get their cooperation.
When children feel heard and validated, they develop a strong sense of self-worth, which empowers them to lead and inspire others confidently.
Even though millennials are the most educated generation in history, they understand that life is about more than just academics. In the past, parents often focused too much on external achievements like high grades, musical talent, or sports excellence. Nowadays, parents emphasize the process over the outcome. This shift helps children focus less on perfectionism and more on hard work and perseverance.
At the start of kindergarten, we noticed our daughter’s perfectionism affecting her ability to learn to read. By encouraging and praising her effort to “stretch it out” (the new term for “sound it out”), we saw significant improvements in her confidence and skills.
Achievements matter little if not backed by strong character. Most leaders I know possess immense perseverance and courage, enabling them to make an impact in the world.
We often hear of college freshmen overly relying on their parents. It’s clear that we need to teach kids to navigate challenges independently.
Watching your child deal with pain and failure isn’t easy, but millennial parents recognize they can’t shield their kids forever. Overprotecting them does more harm in the long run. By letting children navigate difficult situations independently, millennial parents are raising effective problem solvers. It takes patience not to step in during every disagreement between my kids, but it’s incredible how often they resolve things themselves when given the chance.
The speaker highlighted that, despite today’s stressors, many children demonstrate unique and effective coping strategies, which she often finds inspiring.
Parents now realize that tailoring the world to their child can create false self-esteem. They’re finding a balance between fostering entitlement and damaging self-esteem. Many millennial parents understand that they too are still discovering their own talents, which influences how they guide their children. They teach their kids to appreciate and cultivate their innate gifts without making them think the world revolves around them. Although I’d love to see my four-year-old daughter in a ballet tutu, I recognize the importance of letting her choose her activities and interests.
In conclusion, millennial parents, take a deep breath. Ignore the online criticism and recognize the many ways you’re excelling, including raising future leaders. These leaders will transform the world with their inner confidence, strength, and character, not by undermining those qualities in others.
As you say goodnight to your child, remember you could be tucking in a future student council president or CEO. Whether they hold a device in one hand and expect a medal ceremony, they’ll still influence the world for the better.
