The Skims co-founder addresses backlash over her parenting style and emphasizes the need for honesty among working mothers.
Category: Lifestyle
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the expectations of motherhood, especially when balancing a demanding career? If so, you’re not alone. Emma Grede, a successful entrepreneur and co-founder of SKIMS, recently found herself at the center of a heated debate after candidly admitting that she spends only three hours a day with her children on weekends.
During her appearance on Today with Jenna and Sheinelle on April 14, Grede opened up about the backlash she received for her comments, which originated from a profile in the Wall Street Journal. She explained that she wasn’t surprised by the criticism because, as she noted, women in the business world often face harsher scrutiny than their male counterparts. Grede emphasized the importance of being honest about the challenges of balancing work and parenting, stating that women are held to "an impossible standard" as both parents and business leaders.
Grede, who is a mother of four—Grey (11), Lola (9), and twins Lake and Rafferty (4)—highlighted that after a grueling work week, she finds herself exhausted by the weekend. "When you go to work every day Monday through Friday, you are spent by the time you get to the weekend," she explained. This resonates with many working parents who understand that weekends often involve errands and personal time rather than endless hours of quality family interaction.
She pointed out that her weekends are not just about family time; they also include activities that help her recharge. “Anyone who has children knows that you don’t spend eight hours on a Saturday and Sunday with them,” Grede said. Instead, she focuses on creating "high-impact, core memories" with her kids, such as fishing trips or family getaways, rather than trying to fill every moment with structured activities.
Grede's approach to parenting encourages independence among her children. She believes in teaching them how to entertain themselves, which she describes as a necessary part of parenting. "We’re teaching our kids to be independent and, god forbid, how to actually entertain themselves," she said. This perspective can be liberating for parents who feel pressured to be constantly engaged with their children.
As with any parenting philosophy, it’s important to keep your children's well-being in mind. If you notice your child struggling with independence or if they frequently express anxiety when left alone, it may be worth discussing with a pediatrician. Signs of distress can vary, but look for changes in behavior, such as increased clinginess or reluctance to engage in activities without you.
Grede’s approach reflects a growing trend among working parents who seek balance without sacrificing their own needs. As children grow, the dynamics of parenting change, and what works for a toddler may not apply to a pre-teen. Grede’s children are at different stages, from the independence of her older kids to the still-developing autonomy of her twins. Recognizing these stages can help you tailor your parenting strategies effectively.
Emma Grede’s comments may have sparked controversy, but they also shed light on the often-unspoken realities of modern parenting. By advocating for honesty and independence, she encourages other mothers to embrace their choices without guilt. As she wisely put it, "Perfection is only something that exists on Instagram." For many parents, the key takeaway is to find a balance that works for you and your family, acknowledging that it’s okay to take time for yourself. After all, you are doing great, and every family’s situation is unique.