The Parenting Trends I Refuse To Endorse (Even if they are "trending")

This is a hot take I’ve been holding in for a long time.

Some parenting trends on social media sound holy, nostalgic, or “strong”… but in reality, they’re doing quiet damage. And I love parents too much to pretend otherwise.

Before you scroll past or brace yourself, let me say this clearly:

I’ve spent 15 years working in child prevention and protection, and I’ve walked alongside parents all over the world—from every background, belief system, and family structure—helping them get equipped to protect their kids without disconnecting from them.

This isn’t theory.It’s lived. Studied. Practiced.And often learned the hard way.

1. “Raise Your Kids Like It’s the 90s”

I get the appeal. Truly.

I love 90s culture—the freedom, the simplicity, the lack of screens glued to our hands. I understand the longing for a time that felt safer, slower, and less complicated.

But here’s the truth we have to be honest about:

It’s not the 90s.

Raising kids in an overprotective bubble doesn’t actually keep them safe long-term—it often leaves them unprepared. Just because something isn’t allowed in your home doesn’t mean your child won’t encounter it in the world.

We are called to be in the world, not of it. That doesn’t mean avoidance—it means preparation.

Our kids don’t just need rules.They need language.They need tools.They need discernment.They need confidence.

Because one day, they will face hard conversations, confusing situations, and dangerous moments without us in the room. And what protects them most isn’t ignorance—it’s connection built over time.

2. “Gentle Parenting Is Weak”

This one comes up constantly—and it’s rooted in misunderstanding.

Yelling is easier.Reacting is easier.Punishing without reflection is easier.Believing “I’m the parent, so I’m always right” is easier.

What’s harder?

Identifying your own triggers.Regulating your nervous system before addressing your child’s behavior.Meeting your child where they are developmentally and emotionally.Repairing when you mess up.Owning an apology.

Gentle parenting isn’t permissive or passive—it’s deeply disciplined.It requires strength, humility, and emotional maturity to lead with calm authority instead of fear-based control.

This doesn’t mean boundaries disappear. It means they’re held with connection, not disconnection.

3. “Breath Work Is New Age or Demonic”

I’ll say this with a little humor—but also with clarity.

Does the enemy twist what is holy? Absolutely. Does that mean we abandon the original gift? Absolutely not.

Breath is one of the most powerful tools God gave us—and its power is woven throughout Scripture. From the breath of life in Genesis to the call to be still and know, breath has always been sacred.

Context matters.Discernment matters.Wisdom matters.

Not every trending post deserves your theology. Sometimes, what’s been labeled as “new age” is simply a misused version of something God designed to bring regulation, peace, and clarity.

When parents learn to regulate their own nervous systems, they become safer, steadier leaders for their children. That’s not compromise—it’s stewardship.

Why I’m Speaking Up

We simply cannot pretend these conversations aren’t necessary.

There is no one-size-fits-all way to parent. Every child is different. Every family dynamic is unique. Every season brings new challenges.

But there are wise, grounded, faith-anchored tools that make the journey lighter, safer, and more connected—for both parents and children.

Ready to Take the Next Step? Join Me On the Journey!

If this stirred something in you—curiosity, discomfort, relief, or even resistance—that’s usually an invitation. If you’re looking for practical tools, faith-based guidance, and rhythms that actually work in real family life, here are two ways to go deeper:

• Download The Intentional Family - A practical, faith-anchored guide to help you build a connected home with clarity, boundaries, and grace—without striving or perfectionism.

• Join an Intentional Life Live Group- Walk life out in real time with support, honest conversation, and guidance alongside other parents who don’t want surface-level change—they want transformation.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. And you don’t have to choose between faith and emotional health.