Lately, I’ve been grappling with a persistent simmering frustration. It intensifies when I spot groups of teens congregating without masks, or when I see posts celebrating gatherings—like graduation parties where teens throw their caps in the air from a deck. My heart races with exasperation.
I have teenagers at home who, like many, long to connect with their friends. My eldest frequently reminds me that he’s the only one unable to hang out. He tells me about bonfires, beach trips, and pizza parties, claiming that his friends are constantly together, roaming the neighborhood without a care.
Whether he’s exaggerating or not, I can’t help but feel that much of it is true—especially as he shows me SnapChat stories to convince me that he’s missing out. Unfortunately, it’s only fueling my anger towards the parents who are failing to instill a sense of responsibility in their children.
The excuses are exhausting. Some parents claim they can’t control their kids’ actions. Really? As far as I know, the adults in the household have the ability to restrict access to car keys and cell phones if their kids break the crucial rule of staying home. These carefree parents don’t seem to grasp that their leniency prolongs this ongoing crisis.
Those who disregard social distancing measures because they think they’re unnecessary, or who dismiss concerns by claiming, “this isn’t living,” must not truly comprehend the seriousness of the situation. They appear indifferent to the rising death toll and the frightening symptoms of conditions like Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome that affect children and teens.
Daily, I see parents on social media asking if it’s acceptable to let their kids socialize. They must believe that the risks of COVID-19 are exaggerated. How many times must we hear from health professionals that this virus does not discriminate by age?
Prioritizing your child’s desires—like in-person friend time—is selfish. Some parents are making it much more challenging for those of us who are following the guidelines and keeping our kids home. Their actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the state of the world and the potential consequences of their decisions.
This behavior sends a damaging message to our kids. The entire community is advised to maintain distance and adopt safety measures. Allowing kids to gather at skate parks or pool parties because “it seems harmless,” or “it’s been long enough” isn’t acceptable.
I wish parents would reflect on the message they are sending to those who are adhering to the rules. They should consider the burden they’re placing on families who are doing their best to follow health recommendations. Think about the frontline workers and the overwhelmed healthcare system. By allowing their children to return to normalcy, they contribute to the ongoing struggle.
If a parent wouldn’t let their child drive alone without a seatbelt or adherence to traffic laws due to safety concerns, why would they allow their kids to ignore social distancing? Parents who let their kids roam free are like reckless drivers who believe they can evade the rules without consequences.
It’s time for all parents to recognize the gravity of this situation and make responsible choices, regardless of how challenging it may be. We all want to return to normal, but that can only happen if we collectively commit to doing the right thing.
For more insights on navigating parenthood and health during these times, check out this article on Home Insemination Kit or visit Make a Mom for expert guidance. Additionally, RMANY offers excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
Parents who disregard social distancing guidelines are making it tougher for responsible families. The need for collective action to keep children safe amidst the COVID-19 pandemic has never been more critical. Prioritizing children’s desires over safety is a selfish choice that has far-reaching consequences for everyone.
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