‘Reverse parenting’ allows parents to relax while children handle housework after school
New trend lets mum and dad put their feet up, experts say kids in control challenges parental authority, helps children build independence
Young parents in China are relaxing at home while their children take care of the housework after school, as the trend of “reverse parenting” goes viral.
Yuanyuan, a primary school student from northeastern China’s Liaoning province, has attracted nearly one million followers on mainland social media by documenting his daily life with a mini camera clipped to his clothes.
Two to three times a week, Yuanyuan gets up at 5am to walk his neighbours’ dogs for five yuan (70 US cents) each.
After school, he calls his mother to ask what she wants for dinner, then shops for fresh groceries, bargaining with vendors and paying in cash.
At home, Yuanyuan cooks meals like braised prawns and pork ribs, usually serving two meat dishes and a vegetable.
Once dinner is ready, he calls his mother, who is often watching TV, to come to eat.