At its core, competitive parenting is the tendency to compare your parenting style, your child’s achievements, or your family’s lifestyle with that of other parents. Whether it’s how early your toddler starts reading, how many extracurriculars your teen juggles, or how picture-perfect your family vacation looks on Instagram—competitive parenting thrives on comparison.
A little competition in life is natural and, in some cases, even healthy. It can spark motivation, encourage personal growth, and push us to be better. But when competition becomes chronic, especially in the realm of parenting, it often leads to stress, anxiety, and strained family relationships.
