Dear friends,
I appreciate the alternative parenting choices that many of you embrace. I genuinely admire your commitment to attachment parenting and holistic living—whether that means nursing in a sling while managing a cart of toddlers or brewing your own kombucha. If we were in the 1960s, we’d definitely be on the same wavelength.
However, there’s a topic that’s often left unspoken between us: vaccinations. While my children are fully vaccinated, your kids remain unvaccinated, and this divergence has created an unspoken barrier in our conversations. Discussing vaccines can feel as contentious as diving into politics with a family member who holds opposing views—there seems to be no middle ground.
I’ve researched vaccines thoroughly, consulting the CDC, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the World Health Organization, along with our pediatrician and a trusted epidemiologist. I’ve reviewed the package inserts and examined both sides of the vaccine debate. Ultimately, I decided to vaccinate my children based on the evidence presented by these reputable sources.
Conversely, it seems you hold a different perspective on vaccine science. You may question the integrity of the studies I trust, believing instead in alternative research. While I might not agree with your conclusions, I respect your right to make informed choices for your family. It’s essential to acknowledge, though, that I believe my decision is the right one and yours is misguided.
Our friendship is important to me, which is why I want to clarify a few things without letting recent outbreaks, like measles, disrupt our connection. Understanding that I love you but not the diseases that come with unvaccinated children is crucial. If there’s even a hint of measles within 500 miles, my children will be kept at a distance from unvaccinated kids until they receive their full vaccinations.
We’ve always had an understanding: sick kids stay home. However, the presence of unvaccinated children complicates matters. If your child has been around someone who is unwell, I may need to limit our kids’ interactions for their safety. You might think, “If your kids are vaccinated, why worry?” But it’s about protecting my children from potential exposure to highly contagious illnesses.
If you plan to attend a pox party, please let me know. Varicella can be contagious even before symptoms appear, and I would appreciate advance notice so that we can take necessary precautions.
I’m also committed to keeping you informed when my children receive vaccinations, as I know you have concerns about potential shedding. Although I believe the risks are minimal, your peace of mind matters to me. I will communicate when my children are given live-virus vaccines.
Above all, I promise to approach our discussions with respect. While I may disagree with your interpretation of the available science, I value our friendship. We can navigate these serious issues without resorting to hostility. Our shared goal is the well-being of our children, and I can hold my beliefs while still respecting yours.
I hope you can extend the same courtesy to me.
For more on the topic of insemination and parenting, you might find useful information in this post.
In summary, maintaining open communication and respecting each other’s choices regarding vaccinations can help preserve our friendships, even amidst differing opinions. Let’s work together to ensure the safety and health of our children while navigating these complex conversations.