I tried 70s parenting, and realised I am good enough

January 22, 2026 - 06:17

A modern parent, overwhelmed by the constant demands of mediating sibling squabbles and negotiating screen time, recently turned to the past for guidance. By experimenting with the less hands-on approach characteristic of 1970s parenting, they made a liberating discovery: the pressure to be a perfect parent solving every minor issue is not only unsustainable but unnecessary.

The experiment began at home. Instead of immediately intervening in every argument between two daughters, the parent allowed them space to resolve their own conflicts. Similarly, firm limits on television time were set without lengthy debates. The initial result was, predictably, more complaints. However, a crucial shift occurred. The children began to develop their own negotiation skills and find alternative activities, fostering independence.

This journey led to a powerful personal realization. The parent understood that constantly swooping in to fix every problem can inadvertently prevent children from building resilience and problem-solving skills. The goal shifted from achieving perfection to being "good enough"—providing a safe, loving foundation while stepping back to let children navigate some of life's smaller challenges on their own. This retro approach offered a timeless lesson: sometimes, the best support a parent can give is the confidence to let go.