A 1980s Parenting Style Could Save Summer

When children raised in these two ways are compared later in life, the ones who experienced natural growth tend to be more resilient and independent.

Lareau contrasts natural growth with “concerted cultivation,” where parents direct the minutiae of a child’s life. That means moms and dads manage enrichment activities and playdates and generally ensure most of a child’s time is occupied with academic, athletic or self-improvement.

Contemporary research has shown that children do pretty well when offered autonomy. 

Many 80s parents practiced what University of Pennsylvania sociologist Annette Lareau, PhD, has come to call “accomplishment of natural growth.” That’s the idea that parents are there to provide kids with food, safety and love, in order to facilitate a self-dir... See more