Does it feel like we are living through a time of constant world disorder?

Between the news cycle and the state of the country, it is easy to feel like things are shaky, uncontrollable, and that we don’t know what to expect next. If you choose to, you could be plugged into news every minute of the day that leaves your head spinning. It is incredibly tricky to stay informed without becoming completely overwhelmed.

This week on Wonder in the Weeds, we explored a heavy but necessary question: How do you parent when the world feels like it’s on fire?

I don’t have a “one-size-fits-all” answer. In fact, I believe parenting experts are a bit of a misnomer because no one is an expert on your child except you. However, even in the midst of crisis, I have found a source of hope. It turns out, the wonder we are looking for is actually the kids themselves.

The Balm of the “Littles”

If you are currently parenting little children, you know it is relentless and often exhausting. I’m not going to tell you to “enjoy every minute,” because that’s not realistic.

But if you can, try to let their sense of wonder wash over you. Their joy, curiosity, and silliness can be a salve a balm over the rougher parts of your day. It won’t fix the exhaustion, but basking in their infectious joy can help carry the load.

The Resilience of Gen Z

For those raising teenagers or young adults, looking at this generation offers a different kind of hope. I view Gen Z as “fire starters” in the best possible way.

This generation often called the “school shooting generation” because of the safety drills they grew up with, is incredibly resilient, smart, and determined. When I look at them, I realize they are uniquely prepared for what lies ahead. They are better at so many things than we were at their age, particularly when it comes to acceptance. They don’t get tied up in knots about who people are; they just accept their friends and move on.

Witnessing their strength gives me hope. It feels like a promise that if these are the people taking over, we are going to be in great hands.

Put the Phone Down

If I had one piece of actionable advice for parenting through a crisis, it is this: Put the phone down.

The apps on our phones are often filled with darkness, but that isn’t always the real world. If you can disconnect from the screen and get out with real people, especially the young people in your own home, you’ll find a better balance between the darkness of reality and the hope for a brighter future.

Finding the Wonder

It’s hard these days to find wonder in the weeds of the news. But if we pay attention to our children, nurture their talents, and give them space to grow, we can see the bright spots.

So, bask in their goodness. Remind them of their own resilience. And let yourself believe that the most important thing you can do to make the world better is simply to raise better kids.