As a parent of three children (ages 6 months, 5, and 7), I frequently encounter unsolicited parenting advice from well-meaning individuals, both in person and on social media. While I understand the intention behind their suggestions, there are times when I wish they would simply keep quiet. Below, I’ve compiled a list of six common pieces of unwanted advice and how I’d like to respond—if I weren’t so inclined to be polite.
1. “Shouldn’t he be wearing a jacket?”
Absolutely, he probably should be. But here’s the reality: I instructed him to put on a jacket, yet at 7 years old, he listens about as well as a goldfish. I expend my energy getting him into the bathtub once a day; I’m letting him learn some lessons through discomfort. Can you handle that? Because I can.
2. “Breastfeeding is better for babies.”
Thanks for the heads-up, Doctor. But let’s talk about real life. My partner intended to breastfeed, but after a month, she had to return to work. Her employer’s maternity leave policy was lacking, and the only available pumping area was less than ideal. So, we opted for formula. Is that acceptable to you?
3. “If you really loved your kids, you wouldn’t let them eat at McDonald’s.”
If you had kids, you’d realize how unrealistic that statement is. McDonald’s is an unavoidable reality. I dislike the place and its food, but sometimes, it’s a necessary evil that makes life a bit easier. Just like you enjoy your coffee runs, I have to embrace the occasional fast-food trip.
4. “Keeping a clean home with kids isn’t that tough.”
When you say “maintain it,” do you mean putting the kids outside with minimal supervision until they turn 18? Or perhaps you think my partner and I should quit our jobs to tidy up? My children are like little tornadoes, and I recently discovered two pairs of undies in the freezer. How does that fit into your advice?
5. “Your baby would sleep through the night if you let her cry it out.”
You might be right, but I just can’t bring myself to do it. I’m not ready to be that tough. I’ll endure sleepless nights until she figures it out. So, the next time I mention my exhaustion, please refrain from the advice—just let me vent.
6. “Preventing public meltdowns starts at home.”
I assume that when you raised your children, physical discipline was acceptable. I do my best to teach my kids appropriate behavior, but in public, they can sometimes turn into demanding little monsters. Most of the time, they are wonderful, but when they act out, it’s part of the learning process. They need to understand that boundaries exist, and that takes time and experience, both for them and for me.
In conclusion, unsolicited parenting advice can be overwhelming. It’s essential to navigate the challenges of raising children while also maintaining a sense of humor and patience. For more insights on pregnancy and home insemination, you can refer to WHO’s excellent resource on pregnancy or explore products like the Cryobaby home intracervical insemination syringe kit combo. Additionally, you can refer to our terms and conditions here for further reading.