Lately, my FYP has been flooded with videos of influencers heading to stores like Target and Walmart, slipping cash into baby items like diapers and formula. This whole trend kicked off when someone posted a TikTok showing a purse left behind in the baby aisle, captioned with “she deserved the purse.” The implication was that some mothers wanted to treat themselves but had to put their desires aside for their children’s needs.
Influencers like Abbie Herbert and Matt and Abby have jumped on this bandwagon. I get it —doing something nice for families in need is a lovely gesture. But honestly, it bugs me for a few reasons.
First off, these influencers are showcasing their acts of kindness. Don’t get me wrong; I think it’s fantastic to want to help others. But the whole “look at me being generous” vibe feels off. When you do something kind, it doesn’t always have to be a public spectacle. Kindness can be a quiet act — something you do just because you care, not for the likes or shares.
And let’s be real; while many people have good intentions, there are also those who don’t.
Unfortunately, some cruel, miserable people exist. As you’re in the baby aisle trying to do something nice, there are bound to be people watching these videos who think, “Hey, I could grab that money for myself.” Instead of feeling inspired to give, they just see an opportunity to take advantage. It’s frustrating because these individuals are ruining a genuinely beautiful act for those who could truly use it.
This is why baby items might end up being locked up, and why stores may start discouraging these kinds of gestures. It’s a shame, but it reflects the reality we live in.
So, how do we turn this around? We can absolutely find ways to spread kindness to new mothers without needing to post it all over social media. Here are some ideas:
1. Offer to Buy a Mother’s Groceries
If you notice one of the new mothers struggling with a cart full of kids (and maybe some tantrums), offer to cover her groceries. A simple gesture can make a huge difference on a tough day.
2. Give a Mom a Gift Card to the Store
A gift card to a grocery store or retail shop is super thoughtful. It lets the recipient choose what they really need. You could leave one in a heartfelt note in a mailbox for a friend or a local single mom.
3. Organize a Community Donation Drive
Instead of flying solo with your kindness, rally your friends or family to collect items for local shelters or organizations that help families and new single mothers. It’s a great way to make a bigger impact while creating a sense of community.
4. Write a Heartfelt Note of Encouragement
A few kind words can really brighten someone’s day. Leave an uplifting note in a public place or mail it anonymously to someone you think could use a boost. Just knowing someone cares can be a game-changer.
5. Volunteer Your Time
Giving your time to local charities or organizations that support families is incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s at a food bank, a shelter, or a hospital, your presence can provide comfort to those who need it most—without any need for recognition.
While we can express kindness in many other ways, it’s still okay to engage in the original trend. The key is to focus on the intention behind the act. If you choose to leave cash in the baby aisle, consider doing it anonymously and without the need for a camera. It’s about spreading goodwill without expecting anything in return.
While these trends can bring attention to important issues, real kindness often happens quietly behind the scenes. The most meaningful acts are the ones we do for others when no one is watching. So let’s shift our focus from seeking validation to creating genuine connections. Kindness should be about uplifting one another, not just racking up views. Let’s work together to foster a culture of kindness that truly makes a difference, even if it goes unnoticed. After all, the world needs more genuine kindness, and it starts with us!
Featured image via Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels
