In the ever-evolving world of parenting, where terms fly as fast as trends, identifying as a "scrunchy" mom has become a badge of honor for me, Maddy Worthington. It’s a term that beautifully encapsulates the balance between the natural, "crunchy" lifestyle and the convenience-driven, "silky" approach. This middle ground, where we find ourselves mixing wooden toys with (gasp!) plastic ones and balancing nourishing homemade meals with the occasional fast-food treat, is where I’ve found my rhythm in the splendiferous chaos of motherhood.
The Crunchy, Silky, and Scrunchy Spectrum
So. Here’s the deal. The parenting spectrum ranges from the "crunchy" moms, who lean heavily into a natural and organic lifestyle, questioning conventional norms around health and parenting and avoid things like plastic, synthetics, and junk food, to "silky" moms, who embrace modern conveniences such as chicken nuggets, screens for babysitting, and ‘mainstream’ everything to do with health and wellness in order to ride out the challenges of motherhood. Then there’s us, the "scrunchy" moms, navigating the middle path, inspired by the notion of being "crispy at best," as eloquently and brilliantly put by Abbie Halberstadt of 'M is for Mama'.
My Scrunchy Mom Journey
My adventure into more ‘holistic’ and natural health and parenting began with the pregnancy of my first child. This journey wasn't just about rejecting the mainstream for the sake of it; it was a quest for what truly felt "best for my family." I had been studying to become a midwife, the dream to be a home-birth midwife, when I fell pregnant with my first child, 13 years ago. I had already learnt a great deal about what to avoid or decline in order to have a natural birth, and the research naturally flowed on from there to breastfeeding, baby care and parenting techniques. I was given a book at my baby shower called, “Mothers little Helper: an old-fashioned guide to raising your baby chemical-free” written by NZ author Wendyl Nissen. This opened my eyes up to alot of things that I never would have thought to question or look into. I became an ingredients list reader, and learnt that I could make alot from scratch right at home. Over the years my armoury of remedies, recipes and knowledge has grown. From incorporating nettle tea and local honey into our diet to combat hay fever, to using baking soda and vinegar for a whole assortment of things, my family has embraced the effectiveness of simple, holistic and natural alternatives.
However, the path hasn't been without its challenges. In a world where information overload is the norm, and the influence of large corporations on our health choices is a real concern, I've had to become more discerning, looking beyond the surface to find trustworthy resources and practices that align with our values.
The Reality of Being Scrunchy
Admitting to moments of weakness, like indulging in fried chicken cooked in the horror known as canola oil during a late-night movie, might seem trivial, but it’s these moments that remind me of the importance of balance. Being "scrunchy" means giving myself the grace to not always live up to the "crunchy" ideal without fully swinging to the "silky" side of convenience. It's about making conscious choices most of the time, while also acknowledging that perfection is an impossible and unnecessary goal.
Embracing Balance and Flexibility
The beauty of being a scrunchy mom lies in the balance and flexibility it brings to our lives. It’s a testament to the idea that we can strive for a natural, healthy lifestyle while still enjoying the conveniences that modern life has to offer. Living in a bus I am definitely grateful for disposable nappies. This approach has allowed me to prioritize what truly matters — the health and happiness of my family — without getting lost in the guilt or pressure of adhering strictly to one parenting style. My kids eat mostly healthy, home-cooked, ‘clean’ ingrediant meals at home, so when we go to a birthday party, or to someone's house, or on holiday (or even just on the weekends, let’s be real) they may enjoy sugary treats, fried foods, and even a side of preservatives or E numbers (you crunchy Mama’s know what im talking about..) and THATS OK. I will not lose sleep over it. And I will serve broth and organic produce the next day ;)
Moving Forward with Grace
As I continue on this journey, my goal is to remain open to learning and adapting, to celebrate the wins, and to be kind to myself during the less-than-ideal moments. Being a scrunchy mom isn't just about the choices we make; it's about the mindset we embody — one of grace, flexibility, and a commitment to doing what's best for our families, crispy moments and all.
To fellow parents navigating this complex world, remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting. Whether you lean more crunchy, silky, or find yourself in the scrunchy middle like me, embracing your unique path with love and intention is what truly matters. Here's to the scrunchy journey — imperfect, rewarding, and beautifully ours.