Jennifer Gates is learning how different life looks now that she’s raising her own children. As the mother of two young daughters, she reflects on parenting today versus her childhood without social media.
Gates, now 29 and a pediatric resident, shares daughters Leila and Mia with husband Nayel Nassar. While her life as a mom is full of joy, she admits it also comes with unexpected challenges
Jennifer explained that raising kids in a digital age requires constant decision-making. She and Nayel often discuss how much to share online and how to protect their children’s privacy.
She credits her own parents, Bill and Melinda, with showing her the value of privacy. Back then, social media didn’t exist. This allowed Jennifer and her siblings to grow up away from the spotlight.
She remembers attending school without people knowing her last name. That sense of normalcy, she says, was rare but valuable.
Now, raising kids in a digital age, Jennifer wants to give her daughters the same freedom. She hopes they will form their own identities and feel confident about who they are.
Jennifer and Nayel welcomed Leila in March 2023 and Mia in October 2024. Becoming a mom to two children under two has been both rewarding and demanding.
She openly admits that raising two small children can feel overwhelming at times. Yet she’s grateful for the help she receives from family and childcare providers.
Jennifer also acknowledges her privilege. She says not all parents have the luxury of time off, paid childcare, or strong family support.
Even with help, she finds parenting two under two a massive challenge. Breastfeeding one baby while managing meals for another keeps her constantly moving.
She describes Leila as determined, funny, and very verbal. Mia, on the other hand, is calm and easygoing so far.
Jennifer believes their different personalities reflect her evolving experience as a parent.
Raising kids in a digital age continues to shape her choices. And while the journey is complex, she finds purpose and joy in watching her daughters grow.
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