Navigating Snowplow Parenting: The Dangers of Overprotective Parenting and Its Impact

Just as a snowplow comes along and moves the snow out of the way, making it easier for people to have access to things, snowplow parenting does pretty much the same thing, but for their kids, (with good intentions, of course). 

They will plan out their kids lives, constantly watching over them, they will do everything for their kids, instead of allowing them to do it for themselves.

Their goal is to eliminate any challenges or hurdles that may interfere with their child’s lives, paving the way for smooth sailing ahead. 

So, why would a person intentionally choose to become a Snowplow Parent?

A snowplow parent is often motivated by a desire to ensure their child's success and happiness at any cost. They set high standards for their child and are afraid of them having to face disappointment or failure.

This type of parent may have encountered difficulties in their own life and so they want to protect their child from similar challenges.

They believe that by removing obstacles and smoothing the way forward they can give their child the chance for a better future.

However this approach could unintentionally interfere with the development of the child's problem solving abilities and independence, potentially resulting in lasting effects.

The potential impact that the key practices of snowplow parenting may have on a child

momwatchingkiddrawMom has daughter on her lap and is helping her with homework.

No Opportunity to Build Coping Skills: Snowplow parents are well known for rushing to the rescue of their child whenever any difficulty or discomfort arises. 

They are more than ready to eliminate any obstacles that come into their kids path. 

Whether it involves stepping in during conflicts with peers, doing their homework for them or shielding them from possible failure.

Snowplow parents prioritize solving the problem for their child over their kid becoming independent. 

By always clearing the path, they are unintentionally preventing their children from learning coping skills and becoming self-sufficient.

Effects for the Child: Because the parents do everything for them as children, they tend to lack the skills to handle challenges and problem-solving on their own later in life. The result may be a feeling of inadequacy and helplessness.

Over-Involved in Decision Making: Snowplow parents tend to dominate the decision making processes overseeing everything, from activities to career choices for their children.

Rather than encouraging their kids to explore their interests and goals snowplow parents tend to enforce their own plans and expectations limiting the space for self discovery and personal freedom.

Effects for the Child: This control will stop a child from being independent and could prevent them from their chance to develop decision making skills and a sense of empowerment.

When raised in an environment with over-involved parents, a child can struggle to develop independence, confidence, and a sense of self.

Often leading to feelings of resentment and confusion during both adolescence and adulthood.

dadlookingoverboysshoulderDad is sitting on sofa and watching over his son who is on his phone. depositphotos.com

Not Being Allowed to Deal With Consequences: The children are protected from facing the consequences of their actions.

No matter what it involves, it could be something like saving them from having to deal with the low grade they received in school or covering for them when a poor decision is made.  

While snowplow parents do have good intentions, their parenting approach will prevent their child from owning up to their actions or learning from their mistakes. 

Sheltering their kids from life's challenges only interferes with their child’s growth.

Effects on the Child: Children who are protected from facing the consequences of their actions will find it hard to maintain a sense of responsibility or coping strategies.

This could lead to a dependency on others and struggling to deal with the responsibilities that comes with adulthood.

Prioritizing Achievement Over Well-Being: Snowplow parents often value their child’s extracurricular accomplishments, linking success to external achievements.

In their quest for perfection they may overlook the well being of their children, failing to prioritize things like self care, mental health and maintaining a healthy balance between work and life. 

This intense focus on achievement can create a high stress environment that assists in feelings of anxiety, perfectionism and burnout in children, ultimately jeopardizing their happiness and satisfaction.

Effects on the Child: the children are brought up in an environment that prioritizes achievement above all else.

They may experience increased stress levels, lower self esteem and reduced motivation, leading to an ongoing need for approval from others.

familydoinghomeworkMom and Dad are sitting at the table with their two children helping them with crafts. Dad is on his computer. depositphotos.com

In conclusion: 

Snowplow parents may think they're helping their kids by removing obstacles that might interfere with the development of their skills such as, independence and problem solving.

However, despite their good intentions, this could restrict their child's ability to face difficulties on their own in the future, potentially stunting they're growth.

It’s important that snowplow parents try and come up with a balance between providing guidance and support, while also allowing your child the freedom to learn, grow and get through life’s challenges.

Lets attempt to prepare an environment that will empower our children to adapt and flourish in the face of challenges.