We’ve got to be mindful of parenting conversations that point fingers. Truly.

Here’s where I’m coming from.

We don’t have to scroll our newsfeeds too long to see it -

Those articles that assume parents are making careless decisions and ruining our kids:

The dangers of being over-protective.

The dangers of being too hands-off.

And while this advice isn’t intended to wound, the way it’s presented can easily stir up conflict and insecurities instead of cheering each other on.

For instance, your kids may play video games.

Mine do not.

I can give you a list of our reasons for this choice in our home.

You can respond with a valid list of your own.

And we can agree that we are each trying our best to parent wisely, yet still disagree on the approach.

And that’s okay.

The problem with broad generalizations over which way is right or wrong is that they neglect someone else’s personal experiences.

And experience is valid.

A parent’s discretion is valid.

For our family, the priority is and always will be a foundation of Biblical truth, grounded in love.

That’s the ultimate guide for all aspects of our lives.

But this doesn’t mean we’ll still raise our kids exactly like another family member raises hers.

Because we have different experiences and different kids.

Yes, we can and we should share our points of view and insight and encourage one another.

And it’s okay to question and challenge and affirm our own reasons why we do what we do.

But we’ve got to be a bit more thoughtful in our approach.

And gentle in expressing our position.

And care more about cheering each other on.

Parenting isn’t easy.

I’m for cheering each other on.

Words by: Jaclyn Warren of Mommys15Minutes. For more encouragement and love follow along at Mommys15Minutes on Facebook and on Instagram at @Mommys15Minutes.