“Supernanny” Jo Frost, known for her transformative work with challenging families and their unruly children, finds herself at odds with a modern-day parenting dilemma. The respected 54-year-old, who once tamed Britain’s toughest toddlers, is now confronting a new battleground in the digital age. Parenting approaches have shifted significantly, with children of today’s technology-driven era aspiring to emulate their online influencers. However, Frost is disheartened by parents who grant unchecked access to gadgets, particularly as the new school term looms.
Discovering videos of young children, some as young as seven, sharing their morning routines online on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Frost has voiced her concerns. The trend of ‘Get ready with me’ posts, where individuals document their preparations for various activities, has now extended to students showcasing their school morning routines. Urging for responsible parenting, Frost emphasises the importance of reclaiming mornings for family connections and criticises the concerning trend among youth.
In a recent social media post garnering over 15,000 endorsements, Frost questions the wisdom of allowing children to engage in influencer-like activities at such a young age. She stresses the significance of mornings being a time for shared breakfasts, the development of life skills, focused attention, and the privilege of education. She highlights the dangers of excessive screen time and implores parents to take charge of the situation.
Frost also addresses the backlash she faces for speaking out, noting that genuine concern should not be dismissed as shaming. She encourages parents to prioritise their children’s well-being over social media appearances. The responses from Instagram users vary, with some supporting Frost’s stance, while others defend the practice of child bloggers. Amidst the debate, the call for a return of the firm but fair approach of “Supernanny” echoes among some users.
In a world where digital content creation increasingly blurs the lines between childhood and influencer culture, Frost’s critique sparks a crucial conversation about parental responsibility in the age of social media. As families navigate this evolving landscape, Frost’s message serves as a reminder to prioritise genuine connections and mindful parenting practices over fleeting online trends.