Let’s be real, fellow parents: It feels like some people have a knack for saying the most annoying things. Whether you’re at the school drop-off or a weekend playdate, someone is bound to make a remark that makes you roll your eyes so hard you might just get a headache. From unsolicited parenting advice to comments that make you doubt your skills as a mom or dad, it’s enough to elicit a collective “What were you thinking?!” to those doling out these cringe-worthy phrases.
Not only do these comments drive us nuts, but some parental behaviors are equally baffling. Whether it’s messing up the carpool line (seriously, it’s August—get it together), hitting “reply all” on PTA emails (just hit “reply,” folks), or acting like their child is destined for stardom in every after-school activity, it can sometimes feel like we’re the slackers in pajamas while they parade around in their perfect parenting capes.
Here are some of those classic eye-rolling comments:
- “Why aren’t you breastfeeding/bottlefeeding/co-sleeping/letting your kid cry it out?”
Seriously, how about you keep your opinions to yourself? Just like you, I have my own reasons for how I raise my children, so let’s not dig into my personal choices, alright? - “I would never wear pajamas to the bus stop.”
Oh, really? I was up all night with a fussy baby and barely made it down the stairs before my toddler knocked over a carton of milk. Honestly, I’m lucky if I’m wearing shoes! - “My kid has never had fast food.”
How adorable! But I’ve got three kids to shuttle around, and I’ll tell you, Ronald McDonald is practically family at this point. Plus, let’s be honest, those fries are the only meal I’ve had today. - “Oh, it’s just a phase. He’ll grow out of it someday.”
I know my child will eventually stop making a mess everywhere, but right now, I need a timeline. Like, can you give me a specific date? Because my carpet can’t take any more scrubbing. - “I don’t have kids, but I have a dog, so I can give parenting advice.”
Please, just stop. I love my dog, but training her is nothing like teaching a child. So maybe keep those thoughts to yourself. - “The pounds just melted off a week or two after the baby came!”
Oh really? My youngest is 11, and I’m still waiting for that baby weight to vanish. Let’s just not. - “We never eat sugar.”
Well, kudos to you and your sugar-free existence. - “Boys will be boys.”
Can we agree that this outdated mindset needs to go? Seriously, the 1950s just called and they want their stereotypes back. - “Oops, sorry, I didn’t see the ‘Baby’s Sleeping, DON’T RING THE BELL’ sign.”
Listen, that time when the baby is asleep is like a sacred moment. When I say don’t ring the bell, I mean it—don’t wake the baby or you might just get a junk punch. - “My 16-year-old is a fantastic driver.”
And my grandmother is a great driver too, but that doesn’t mean I want my kid in the car with your “great driver.” No offense, Grandma. - “Oh, your child is trying basketball for the first time? Our son has been playing since he was 3, and he’s destined for the NBA.”
I’m pretty sure the NBA isn’t scouting 10-year-olds. Sure, your kid may have skills, but mine is simply enjoying the game without the pressure. - “Looks like you have your hands full!”
Yes, thank you for noticing. I really appreciate your comment while I handle a toddler tantrum in the grocery store. Your observation is so helpful—thanks!
We all have moments where we say things that might make others roll their eyes. If you’re on the verge of parenthood and can’t fathom ever being annoyed, just wait. One day, you’ll understand. And for those who choose not to have kids, that’s perfectly fine too. I won’t say, “Oh, you’ll change your mind,” because I get it.
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In summary, while parenting is a beautiful journey, it comes with its share of eye-rolling moments. We can all work on being more mindful of what we say to fellow parents, and hopefully, we can create a more supportive environment for each other.