833-294-8583Parenting Comes in Many Forms: Boys Town Reminds Caregivers They Do Not Have to Do It Alone
This National Parents’ Day, Boys Town recognizes the many people who support children and the resources available to help families through challenges
Boys Town, Neb. (July 20, 2026) – Parents show up for children in many different ways. They may be biological parents, adoptive parents, foster parents, grandparents raising grandchildren, relatives, guardians or other trusted adults who have stepped into an important caregiving role.
While every family may look different, children benefit from having caring adults who provide stability, encouragement, guidance and a sense of belonging.
This National Parents’ Day, observed July 26, Boys Town is recognizing the many people who help children grow while reminding parents and caregivers that they do not have to navigate every challenge alone.
“Parenthood is a vocation. It is a calling,” said Scott Hartman, Boys Town Senior Director of National Community Services. “Whether biological or otherwise, parents and caregivers carry a tremendous responsibility. Providing care requires commitment and hard work, and each person brings different gifts and strengths to that role. Using those gifts to support the children in their care is essential to helping them thrive.”
“Parenting does not look the same for every family,” Hartman said. “What children need are adults who continue to show up, listen, provide structure and help them feel safe and supported. Every child deserves an irrational advocate, someone who loves them no matter what. That is what parents and caregivers provide.”
Parenting is rewarding, but it can also feel overwhelming. Families may be balancing work, school schedules, behavioral concerns, mental health needs, changing family dynamics and the everyday pressure to make the right decisions for their children.
Boys Town experts say parents and caregivers can support stronger family relationships by:
• Focusing on connection before correction. When children are upset or struggling, taking time to listen and understand what may be contributing to the behavior can make it easier to work through the problem together.
• Providing clear and consistent expectations. Children benefit when they understand what is expected, know what routines look like and receive consistent responses from the adults caring for them.
• Recognizing that asking for help is a strength. Reaching out for advice, counseling or additional support can give families new tools and help prevent concerns from becoming more difficult to manage.
• Giving themselves room to learn and adjust. Parents do not have to handle every situation perfectly. Acknowledging mistakes, trying a different approach and continuing to work on the relationship can teach children important lessons about communication and resilience.
“Parents often put a lot of pressure on themselves to have every answer,” said Hartman. “Children do not need perfect parents. They need caring adults who are willing to learn, adjust and continue working to build a strong relationship with them.”
Boys Town offers support for families at many different stages and levels of need. Parents and caregivers can find practical information on behavior, communication, discipline, routines, school concerns, emotional regulation and healthy relationships at BoysTown.org.
Boys Town Behavioral Health provides support for children and families experiencing emotional, behavioral or mental health concerns. Through In-Home Family Services, trained family consultants work directly with parents and caregivers to strengthen parenting skills, improve relationships and help families work through challenges together.
Boys Town also provides training, guidance and ongoing support for foster parents who are helping children build trust, stability and a sense of connection.
For families who need immediate guidance or someone to talk to, the Boys Town National Hotline® is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Trained counselors provide support to youth, parents and families experiencing difficult situations.
This National Parents’ Day, Boys Town encourages families to recognize the many people who help care for and support children while reminding parents and caregivers to give themselves grace and seek support when they need it.
For parenting resources and information about Boys Town services, visit BoysTown.org. Families can also call the Boys Town National Hotline® at 800-448-3000 for support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Scott Hartman is available for interviews. Contact Jordan Weinandt at jordan.weinandt@boystown.org or 531-355-1273.
About Boys Town For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America’s children and families through innovative youth, research and healthcare programs. Boys Town provides compassionate, research-proven education, prevention, training and treatment for behavioral and physical challenges at multiple locations across the United States, offering a comprehensive array of resources and services. In 2025, Boys Town directly served more than 197,000 children and families nationwide. Learn more about Boys Town at www.boystown.org.
