The Parent Trap

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Raising children is the largest industry in the U.S., yet it lacks political support, leaving parents to navigate this vital work in isolation. When seeking help, they often feel inadequate, and there is no centralized organization to advocate for their interests. This systemic neglect results in lost opportunities for children, perpetuating inequality. The author combines social science research, historical case studies, and firsthand investigation to illustrate how parenting is a hidden driver of social disparity. Parents are expected to nurture their children and equip them with essential skills, yet many lack training and resources. The proposed solution is to reduce the demands placed on parents and recognize child development as a public investment with significant returns. A program akin to Medicare, termed Familycare, could facilitate this investment. For this vision to materialize, parents must unite to harness their political power for the benefit of children, the largest disenfranchised group in the nation. The work exposes the societal costs of unrealistic parenting expectations and presents a hopeful blueprint for reform.