As a parent, I can attest that there are certain comments from those without kids that can truly rub us the wrong way. It’s not that we don’t understand your perspective; it’s just that parenting comes with its own set of challenges and sacrifices that are hard to convey. So, to keep the peace, here are 13 things child-free folks might want to avoid saying to parents:
- “Ugh, I’ll never have kids. No way!”
Great, we appreciate your enthusiasm! It’s always nice to know you find our chaotic lives so unappealing. Maybe you’d like to stop by and discuss how to brighten our day while you’re at it? - “How have you not seen that movie or heard that song yet? It’s been out for weeks!”
Believe it or not, we can survive three weeks without catching a flick or listening to the latest chart-toppers. Our schedule often revolves around laundry and meal prep, not movie nights (right now, I’m supervising “art time” while prepping dinner). - “You never call anymore.”
Trust me, keeping tiny humans alive is a full-time gig! If I turn my back for a second, someone’s bound to attempt a daring stunt. And by the time the kids are in bed, I’m usually ready to crash, often without finishing my Merlot. We think about reaching out, though. That has to count for something, right? - “We’re having an adult-only picnic.”
Totally get it, not every event is suited for kids. But come on, how much damage can a bunch of kids really do at a barbecue? And have you seen babysitting rates lately? Let’s trade off: no kids at your pub crawl, and we’ll keep our little ones away from your next backyard bash. - “We’re getting a puppy first to see if we’re ready for a baby.”
Whoa, hold up. Puppies and babies are not the same. Sure, they’re both needy, but that’s where the similarities end! If you want to know what parenting is really like, come spend a day with us—and survive the chaos! - “You’re not going to start wearing ‘mom jeans’ or ‘dad shorts,’ are you?”
Only if you plan to sport something equally ridiculous. Just because we’ve become parents doesn’t mean we’ve lost our sense of style. We’re still rocking our personalities—just with a few more baby onesies in the mix! - “It must be so relaxing to be home with the kids all day.”
Sure, as relaxing as battling an alien invasion! It’s rewarding, but it can be a bit overwhelming. Try spending 12 hours watching “Dora the Explorer” on repeat—it’s a special kind of challenge. - “You’re kid-free tonight! Let loose!”
Yes, we could, but then tomorrow our kids would deliver a punishment worse than a blowtorch to the rear if we stray too far from our routines. If we get too wild, don’t be surprised if we bring them to your place for a day—trust me, you’d prefer to avoid that! - “That kid is out of control!”
But yours isn’t? Let’s be real—kids can get rowdy, and it’s part of the deal. It’s just how they are. It’s like family teasing; we can poke fun at our own, but outsiders? Not cool. - “Could you try to be on time?”
What you really mean is, “Could you magically make getting out the door with a tiny human easier?” Spoiler alert: it’s not easy. It’s like packing for a mini-vacation every time we want to head out! - “I didn’t invite you because you never say yes.”
Please keep inviting us! There will be a time when we can join you, and we genuinely want to be part of it. Our enthusiasm for activities hasn’t dwindled, we just have to juggle a bit more. - “You look tired. Everything okay?”
Oh, just the usual: cleaning up after little ones who seem to think sleep is optional. If spending the night wrangling toddlers is a sign of good health, then we’re thriving! - “When I have kids, I’m going to…”
Silence. Death glare. Crickets. Seriously, save it. Until you’re in the trenches, you have no idea what it takes.
In summary, navigating parenthood can be challenging, and sometimes well-intentioned comments from child-free friends can hit a nerve. Having a little understanding and compassion goes a long way in fostering those relationships.
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