Kids Caught Up in the Mewing Craze?

Kids are always picking up new trends, and some can be both annoying and concerning. Recently, “mewing” has caught their attention. If you’re struggling with your kids’ obsession with mewing and its impact on their body image, you’re not alone. Here’s how to handle these situations with grace…

What is Mewing?

Mewing is a trend where people position their tongues against the roof of their mouths to change their facial structure. It’s all over TikTok and social media, and kids love trying new things—even if those things are as weird as tongue yoga.

If you don't get it, don’t worry you’re not alone!

Stay Calm and Curious

First, stay calm. It’s easy to get frustrated when your child starts mewing at the dinner table, but try to be curious about why this trend interests them.

Ask them to explain it to you. This shows you’re interested and opens up a dialogue. Plus, you might learn something new—even if it’s just how to get a stiff tongue.

Address Body Image Concerns

If your child starts worrying about their looks, like a double chin, step in with reassurance. Explain that everyone’s body is different and that beauty trends come and go.

You might say, “Hey, remember when everyone was obsessed with fidget spinners? Trends change, but being strong, healthy, and confident is always cool.”

Set Boundaries on Trends Talk

It’s okay to set boundaries around how much these trends are discussed or practiced at home. You might say, “I understand you’re interested in mewing, but let’s talk about other things during family time.”

This limits the focus on the trend without dismissing their interest and also saves you from seeing everyone making funny faces at the dinner table.

Encourage Critical Thinking

Help your kids develop critical thinking by discussing the sources of these trends. Talk about how social media can spread misinformation and how not everything online is true.

Encourage them to question and research before jumping on any bandwagon. You might even challenge them to find out if any scientists back up the mewing craze—think of it as a mini research project.

Model Healthy Behavior

As parents, our actions speak louder than words. Show your kids that you’re confident and happy with who you are.

Avoid negative self-talk and focus on what you like about yourself. If they see you embracing your laugh lines and loving your quirks, they’re more likely to do the same.

Keep the Conversation Open

Make sure your kids know they can come to you with any questions or concerns. Keeping communication open helps them feel supported.

If they feel comfortable talking to you about trends like mewing, they’re more likely to listen to your guidance. And who knows, you might be the first to know about the next weird trend.

Dealing with new trends like mewing can be tricky, but with patience, understanding, and a bit of humor, you can guide your kids through it while fostering a healthy self-image and critical thinking skills.

This post is inspired by Reddit user Mission_Ad_5767’s question.

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DISCLAIMER: Just a friendly heads-up - Our newsletter is purely educational and meant to help guide you through the maze of parenting teens and tweens. Every child is unique, so please consider your own circumstances and maybe chat with a professional if you need specific advice. Stay curious and keep learning!