This anti-perfectionist parenting rule is 'good for your kids to see,' says child psychiatrist—here's why

Social media is packed with images of smiling toddlers and perfect childhoods. And they’re having an effect on parents.

Eighty-five percent of millennial parents believe social media creates unrealistic parenting expectations, according to a 2024 Children’s Hospital of Chicago survey of 1,000 millennial parents. And 30% of millennial moms compare their parenting success to others on social media.

Despite what these platforms — and even self-help and parenting books — have to say, there’s not one right way to raise a kid, says child psychiatrist and author of “Why We Suffer and How We Heal” Suzan Song. “There really is no perfect parent,” she says.

Here’s her advice for parents who feel the constant pressure of getting everything right.

When you’re feeling especially anxious about making your kid the perfect lunch or getting your kids to ace their math test, try to find a window for fun and play.