Ep 14. 48 Hours

Instant Mom season 1 episode 14 titled "48 Hours" is about Stephanie's weekend shift that gets extended, leaving Aaron, James, and Gabby home alone for 48 hours. It's not the first time that Stephanie has worked overtime, but she's never been away from her children for so long before. Stephanie tries to connect with the children through Facetime and Skype, but her kids are too caught up with their own activities to respond. Meanwhile, the kids take advantage of their mother's absence by having a party at the house. Aaron invites his friends over, and they indulge in junk food, playing video games and pool. James tries to draw attention to his talents, while Gabby gets glued to her smartphone and becomes obsessed with her online presence.

The episode offers an insight into the challenges of parenting, especially when parents have to balance work and family. Stephanie feels guilty about not being there for her kids, and she worries about their wellbeing. However, she also recognizes the importance of teaching her children responsibility and independence. When she finally gets home, she finds out that her children have been able to manage themselves effectively over the weekend. They have learned to clean up after themselves, cook their meals, and take care of the house. It's a moment of pride for Stephanie that her children have grown up to be responsible and self-sufficient.

The episode also touches on some themes relevant to adolescence, such as social media addiction, peer pressure, and the need for self-expression. Aaron is shown to be conflicted between his loyalty to his friends and his obligation to his siblings. James struggles with being in the shadow of his successful brother, and he finds solace in his love for art. Gabby's obsession with her smartphone is a reflection of the way technology has transformed the way young people interact with the world around them. The show doesn't offer any judgment on these issues but instead serves as a reminder that parenting is a constant learning process that requires patience, understanding, and unconditional love.

Overall, Instant Mom season 1 episode 14 is a heart-warming and relatable episode that captures the essence of family dynamics and growing up. It showcases the importance of communication, trust, and responsibility in building strong relationships between parents and children. The character development in this episode is also noteworthy as it demonstrates a growth in each of the children. Viewers are left with a sense of satisfaction, knowing that this family is headed in the right direction.