Redefining Parenting Norms
Sam Kelly, a 38-year-old mother of three from Utah, is challenging traditional gender roles and redefining parenting and household chores. Transitioning from her role as a therapist to a feminist coach for moms, Sam shares her distinctive insights on home management and communication with her children in an interview with Good Morning America.
Shifting Perspectives
Sam’s journey towards this unconventional approach began when she recognized the burden of invisible labor associated with running the household. Conversations with her husband, Chas Kelly, prompted her to reflect on her parenting style. About 18 months ago, they discussed rebalancing their responsibilities at home, leading Sam to reconsider her approach.
An Epiphany
One evening, while crafting a chore chart for her kids, Sam had an epiphany. She realized that by asking her children to “help” with housework, she was inadvertently perpetuating patriarchal expectations placed on mothers.
Reframing Language
In a post on her Instagram account, boasting nearly 60,000 followers, Sam outlined her new approach. She no longer uses the word “help” when referring to managing the home. Instead, she emphasizes that taking care of the home is a shared responsibility among all family members by using the word “work.”
Positive Reception
Sam’s Instagram post garnered significant attention and support, with over 66,000 likes and nearly 2,000 comments. She firmly believes that changing the language around household chores can positively impact children’s perceptions of work and their roles within the family.
Implementing a New System
In addition to changing the language, Sam has introduced a system she calls “notice and do.” This approach encourages her children to be proactive in identifying tasks that need to be done around the house, teaching them to contribute to the overall well-being of the household.
Debate and Discussion
While Sam’s approach has received praise for challenging traditional gender roles and promoting shared responsibility, it has also sparked debate. Some argue that managing and overseeing the home is solely the parents’ responsibility, while others believe that involving children in household chores can empower them and teach valuable life skills.
Tailoring Parenting Strategies
Sam Kelly’s parenting philosophy serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting. Every family is unique, and the key is to find what works best for your family dynamics and values. Her journey underscores the importance of open communication and a willingness to adapt and evolve as parents.
A Fresh Perspective
In conclusion, Sam Kelly’s decision to stop asking her children to “help” with chores and instead encourage them to “work” represents a fresh perspective on parenting and household responsibilities. By changing the language around chores and teaching her children the value of shared work, she is challenging traditional gender roles and promoting a more equitable division of labor within her family. While her approach has garnered both support and criticism, it underscores the importance of thoughtful and intentional parenting in today’s evolving society.