For the past few weeks, I’ve spent lots of time on the road speaking at parent education events about raising Genuine, Enthusiastic, Empowered Kids (GEEKs!) It’s gratifying to see so many parents come out on school nights or give up weekends to learn how they can fight the influence of popular culture and help their kids enjoy a wholesome, innocent childhood.

 

Lots of folks approach me after my talks to tell me of their concerns and their triumphs in raising geeky kids. I’m always struck by the similarity of their comments. What do I hear most often from the vast majority of parents who attend my events?

 

“I feel like I’m all alone.”

 

Inevitably, parents tell me that they feel isolated and even odd when imposing high standards about media content, wholesome playtime, respectful behavior and obedience. They’re committed to doing their best for their kids, but they recognize how difficult it can be when they’re “the only ones” making tough decisions that impact their children’s social lives and lifestyles.

 

Suggesting the question: If so many folks are working hard to buck the culture and raise geeky kids, why do they all feel so alone?

 

I’m starting to believe that our culture – and our kids – are getting away from us because parents are too afraid or intimidated or unsure of themselves to speak up. They don’t want to risk being labeled “conservative” or uncool or prudish. They don’t want to seem as though they’re judging others. They’re afraid other families will judge them, so they keep their geeky beliefs to themselves, even as they work to maintain a wholesome lifestyle for their kids.

 

I need to alert you that it’s much harder to raise genuine, enthusiastic, empowered kids without the support of the families and friends around you. When we make decisions to protect our kid’s childhoods from media saturation, hyper-sexuality and hyper-materialism, we’re basically choosing a counter-culture lifestyle. It’s important not to do this in secret because if you don’t speak up and let folks know what you think, you won’t find those other people who feel like “they’re all alone.”

 

You’re NOT alone. There are parents everywhere who are working hard to avoid the culture’s exploitation of their children. Take a risk and mention one of your counter-culture house rules (No Facebook for middle schoolers!? What next? Vegetables?)… you may discover some wonderful families who share your values and would love to share the journey with you.