Hyper Parents & Coddled Kids

The Canadian documentary Hyper Parents & Coddled Kids looks at and develops the theories of parents known as helicopter or curling parents; those who take excessive care of their children. What distinguishes the parents of Generation Y born in the 1980s from their predecessors is their relationship to their children. They perceive their offspring as a precious investment that must be protected, supported and developed. They are willing to give their children anything from the prenatal period to adulthood. The child’s life is set out for it from the moment the parents learn of the conception. Besides buying the layette set, they also listen to classical music and read classical literature to develop the child’s intelligence. After the child is born, every second of its life is planned in detail. The child is showered with expensive presents, assured of its uniqueness, and its self-confidence is boundlessly increased. Opulent first birthday parties, costly pre-school education and prestigious interest groups are used to secure the child’s privileged position. A better start in life and a smooth path automatically mean an advantage over others. However, what can be done with a generation that cannot rely on itself, knows no responsibility and requires constant supervision? (Academia Film Olomouc)