Late last month, I was invited to the Meredith Parents Network presentation of its recent study, What Moms Want. Meredith’s Parents magazine is a Child’s Play Communications client; we have represented its toy line for some time. The research turned up some interesting facts, and I’d like to share some of the key findigs here:
- 62% of moms grade themselves a “B” at balancing the demands of motherhood.
- 56% of moms meet other moms via friends of friends, while 39% rely on social networking sites.
- 70% say their ability to multi-task has improved since becoming a mom.
- 79% of moms agree finding “me time” is a challenge, but 75% find a way.
I was impressed that most moms considered themselves pretty good at balancing–this is such a major issue, it was good to learn that so many felt they basically had it under control. I couldn’t help but wonder how our own mothers’ generation would have graded themselves.
The percentage of moms making friends through social networking certainly represents a milestone, when one considers that until a few years ago, such an opportunity did not exist.
That the ability to multitask improved with motherhood was no surprise — how else can we possibly get it all done! I remember, when my son was born, astonishing myself with how much I could suddenly do at once — because I had to.
And as for “me time” — personally I’m still looking…
Moms, what do you think about the study results? Marketers, what can you do to help moms balance, multitask and find some time for themselves?
I hope to get back to you soon with some additional findings.
