Emma Grede, a prominent businesswoman and co-founder of Kim Kardashian’s Skims, recently sparked a heated debate with her remarks about being a “three-hour mum” on weekends. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Grede explained that she dedicates only three hours—specifically from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.—to her four children during the weekends. The backlash was swift and intense, prompting Grede to address the criticism on the Today show, where she articulated her perspective on the challenges women face in balancing motherhood and career.
The Backlash Explained
Grede’s comments, intended to shed light on her parenting philosophy, were met with significant criticism online. When questioned about whether she was surprised by the backlash, Grede responded with clarity: “I just think that headline would never be written about a man.” She highlighted the double standards that women often encounter, stating that they are held to “an impossible standard” as both parents and professionals.
Her remarks were particularly poignant, as she pointed out the unrealistic expectations placed on mothers. “What I’m trying to do is be really honest about what it takes and be really honest about the things I don’t do,” she emphasised. By sharing her experiences, Grede aims to empower other women to embrace their choices and acknowledge the limitations that come with juggling family and career.
Finding Balance
In her interview, Grede elaborated on her approach to parenting, noting that after a demanding week of work, she finds herself drained by the weekend. “Anyone who has children knows that you don’t spend eight hours on a Saturday and Sunday with them. You have errands to run, you have things to do,” she explained.
Grede advocates for fostering independence in her children. “We’re teaching our kids to be independent and, god forbid, how to actually entertain themselves,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of allowing children the freedom to explore and develop on their own.
A Family of Four
Emma Grede and her husband, Jens Grede, parents to an 11-year-old son, Grey, a nine-year-old daughter, Lola, and four-year-old twins, Lake and Rafferty, manage a busy household while she navigates a thriving career. Grede’s professional commitments include various ventures with the Kardashian family, notably as the co-founder of Khloe Kardashian’s denim brand, Good American.
During her weekends, Grede focuses on activities that rejuvenate her spirit, steering clear of what she perceives as “overparenting.” She chooses to prioritise creating meaningful memories through experiences like fishing trips and family vacations, rather than getting bogged down by mundane tasks. “Cutting sandwiches into star shapes? That was never it for me,” she stated, revealing her preference for impactful quality time over traditional parenting norms.
Redefining Success
Grede encourages women to articulate their dreams and financial aspirations, while also recognising the boundaries they need to set. “I hold a vision for myself,” she affirmed, “and I’m uncompromising.” This message resonates strongly in a society where women often feel pressured to conform to unrealistic standards of motherhood.
Why it Matters
Emma Grede’s candid remarks about her parenting style not only challenge societal perceptions of motherhood but also highlight the ongoing struggle for women to balance career ambitions with family responsibilities. In an era where the narrative of the ‘perfect mother’ remains pervasive, Grede’s approach invites a much-needed conversation about authenticity in parenting. By sharing her truth, she empowers other women to embrace their unique paths and redefine what it means to be a successful mother in today’s world. This dialogue is crucial as it encourages a shift toward acceptance of diverse parenting styles, ultimately fostering a more supportive community for all parents.
