12 Modern Parenting Methods That Leave Grandmas Baffled and Bewildered

Sharing is caring!

Have you noticed how parenting looks a little different these days? I sure have! As a grandma, I see some interesting things with my own grown kids (don’t worry—I zip my lips and just smile!). But I also read about some new parenting trends that honestly make me go, “Wait… what?”

Now, I’m not saying all these new ways are bad—some might even work well! But I’ll let you decide. Here are 12 modern parenting methods that might just leave you scratching your head (or laughing a little!). Let’s take a look together.

1. No hose water? Really?

When we were kids, drinking from the garden hose was just part of summer fun! We’d run around barefoot, get soaked, and take a quick drink straight from the hose without a second thought. It felt like freedom. And let’s be honest—a little hose water never hurt anyone! (Now, I don’t recommend swimming in a cow pond like we used to. That might’ve been pushing it!)

2. What are “theybies”?

I try to keep things light here, but this one really made me pause. Some parents today choose not to share whether their baby is a boy or girl. They call them “theybies” and say the child can decide later on. I’ll admit—it’s a new idea for folks like us, and many of us grandmas are still trying to understand it. No judgment here, just some good old-fashioned head scratching!

3. Vegan and Organic Everything

Oh boy—don’t get me started on this one! My famous mac ’n’ cheese, full of butter and love, wouldn’t stand a chance in some of today’s vegan, organic households. These days, some parents are all about plant-based meals, no pesticides, and reading every label like it’s a mystery novel.

Now, I do understand their concern. There’s a lot of processed junk out there. But honestly? A few chicken nuggets and fruit snacks every now and then won’t ruin a child. Everything in moderation, right?

4. The Super-Connected Parent

Sometimes I look at my kids and think they’ve turned into kangaroos! Today’s “attachment parenting” style means baby-wearing in slings, co-sleeping instead of cribs, and breastfeeding on demand—all day and night. Babies stay close, cuddled up like a cozy little backpack.

To be fair, babies do need love, touch, and comfort—no doubt about it. There are some sweet things about this method. But I’ll be honest… back in my day, we did things a bit differently—and so did our moms!

5. Free-Range Parenting

Forget the “helicopter” parents—some moms and dads today are more like farmers, letting their kids roam free like happy little chickens! These “free-range” parents believe kids should ride bikes around the neighborhood, climb trees, and explore the world without constant supervision.

Honestly, that’s pretty close to how we were raised, right? And we turned out okay. I do think there’s something good about giving kids a little freedom—it helps them build confidence and learn on their own.
That said, times have changed. The world isn’t quite what it used to be. So, while a little freedom is great, I believe it’s still important for parents to know where their kids are and keep a watchful (but gentle!) eye.

6. Screen-Free Parenting

Looking back, I’ll admit—my kids probably watched a few too many Disney movies and played plenty of Mario Bros. But you know what? They turned out just fine (in my totally unbiased grandma opinion 😄).

Now, some parents go completely screen-free. No tablets, no phones, no cartoons. And while I get the idea behind it, I think a little screen time now and then is perfectly okay—as long as it’s balanced. What really matters is making sure kids aren’t glued to a screen for hours and that what they’re watching is safe and age-appropriate. There’s a lot out there that looks like it’s for kids—but really isn’t!

7. Mindfulness and Meditation

Back in our day, if kids had extra energy, we’d just send them outside to run around until dinner! But today, some parents are teaching their little ones to sit quietly, close their eyes, and breathe. Yep—it’s all about mindfulness and meditation.

I’ll admit, watching a 5-year-old sit still and “find their center” is a bit surprising… and kind of impressive. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind a little of that peaceful energy myself!

8. Unschooling

I have no problem with homeschooling—in fact, I think it can be wonderful. But this idea of unschooling really had me raising an eyebrow. It’s a method where kids don’t follow a regular school schedule. Instead, they learn by following their own curiosity and exploring the world around them.

Now, I still have a soft spot for spelling bees and memorizing the times tables. But today’s kids? They’re watching science experiments on YouTube, baking to learn fractions, or figuring out how things work just by doing. It’s definitely different—but maybe there’s something magical in letting kids lead the way.

9. Positive Discipline

I know what you’re thinking—positive discipline? Isn’t that a bit of a contradiction? Back in the day, discipline usually meant a stern look, a time-out, or maybe even a spanking. But today’s “gentle parenting” style is all about using kindness and teaching moments instead.

Instead of saying, “You’re grounded!” you’ll hear things like, “I love how you shared your toys!” It’s less about punishment and more about encouragement. I’ll admit, it’s a softer approach than we’re used to—but who doesn’t love a little extra kindness?

10. Parent-Led Weaning

Remember when we started babies on rice cereal with a tiny spoon? Not anymore! These days, many parents are letting babies feed themselves right from the start—with soft, bite-sized finger foods.

So don’t be shocked if you see your grandbaby happily squishing avocado with their tiny fingers (and maybe dropping half of it on the floor). It’s messy, yes—but this method helps little ones build independence and learn to enjoy healthy foods. Just bring extra bibs… and maybe a mop!

11. Gentle Birth Plans

Back in our day, we went to the hospital, had the baby, and hoped for the best. But today’s parents often come in with a full birth plan—music playlists, essential oils, soft lighting, and maybe even a birthing tub!

Some even want the whole experience to feel more like a spa day than a delivery room. Hey, if it helps bring calm into the chaos of childbirth, I say more power to them. But I still can’t imagine giving birth while listening to ocean sounds!

12. No-Sugar Parenting

Cookies? Candy? Birthday cake? Some modern parents are saying no thanks to all of it. They’re raising kids without added sugar—and offering fruit slices instead of cupcakes at birthday parties.

Now, I do believe in healthy habits… but childhood without a little frosting on your nose? That’s tough! Still, if it works for their family, I support it—and I’ll just sneak a cookie for myself when no one’s looking. 😉

Before I go, I just want to say this—with lots of love and a little laughter. Every family is different, and what works for one child might not work for another. If your family uses some of these modern parenting methods and they’re working well for you, that’s truly wonderful! (Who knows—maybe some of these ideas would’ve helped us back in the day, too!)

Just keep doing what you’re doing—you’re doing a great job.

And I can’t wait to chat again soon! 💛

Sharing is caring!