Mom Stands Up Against Modern Parenting Trends by Rejecting Son’s Nap Schedule
Aubrey Matthesius, a mother from Glendale, Arizona, is challenging conventional parenting norms by refusing to abide by her son’s nap schedule as a form of protest against what she sees as the pressures of modern parenting. Matthesius, who is expecting her second child, has adopted a more traditional and low-maintenance approach to motherhood, inspired by the advice of older women in her life.
Feeling overwhelmed by the highly curated and demanding routines she observed on social media platforms like TikTok when she first became pregnant, Matthesius sought guidance from experienced women in her community. Their wisdom and simple advice resonated with her, leading her to embrace what she now refers to as the “low-maintenance mom” mindset. This approach prioritizes cutting out excessive baby products, simplifying tasks, and avoiding unnecessary guilt that can cloud judgement.
In the initial stages of motherhood, Matthesius struggled with postpartum challenges and found herself veering towards an anxious, attachment-style of parenting common among millennial and Gen Z mothers. However, a shift in perspective occurred when she disconnected from social media and leaned on the wisdom of older women, who offered a more grounded and traditional approach to raising children. This change brought her mental, physical, and spiritual freedom, benefiting both herself and her baby.
Matthesius credits her mother-in-law and other women in her church community for imparting valuable advice rooted in old European traditions. By encouraging principles that opposed high-maintenance habits promoted on social media, these women helped her navigate early motherhood with confidence. Key advice, such as the importance of sleep training and not overspending on unnecessary baby products, shaped Matthesius’ parenting philosophy.
As a “low-maintenance mom,” Matthesius has established clear boundaries for herself. She rejects trends, avoids overspending on baby products, and prioritizes sleep training in her household. By following these principles, she has not only created a low-maintenance lifestyle for herself but also instilled these values in her children. Matthesius believes that her children’s adaptability and confidence are a result of the principles she lives by.
Matthesius’s refusal to let her baby’s nap schedule dictate her entire day exemplifies her low-maintenance approach. Instead of being tied down by rigid schedules, she advocates for flexibility and adaptability, allowing her child to nap in different settings or adjusting nap times as needed. By simplifying daily routines and avoiding unnecessary comforts, she has created an environment where her child thrives without excessive expectations.
For Matthesius, empowering others to simplify their parenting approach starts with small steps and being open to change. She encourages parents to cut out unnecessary elements from their routines, seek wisdom from trusted sources, and prioritize peace over the constant noise of modern parenting trends. By embracing the timeless advice passed down by generations of mothers, Matthesius hopes to inspire others to find joy and stability in their parenting journey.
In a world dominated by social media influencers and modern parenting trends, Aubrey Matthesius stands out as a voice of reason, advocating for a simpler and more traditional approach to raising children. By challenging the status quo and embracing the wisdom of older generations, she sets a powerful example for parents seeking a more balanced and peaceful parenting experience.