Updated: Aug. 20, 2023
Originally Published: April 13, 2023
Parents can be a sensitive bunch. Maybe it’s because they often feel judged—like royalty at a judgmental coronation. The truth is, no group seems to wear the “victim” badge more proudly than parents, and yes, those quotation marks are intentional.
In today’s world, navigating conversations with parents can feel like walking through a minefield. Every day brings fresh complaints from moms and dads about how they’re being slighted—whether it’s by restaurants, those without children, or even their own offspring. Although some of these grievances have merit, many stem from an inflated sense of self-importance.
Parenting, while undoubtedly rewarding and challenging, isn’t exactly a groundbreaking endeavor. It’s been around forever, and fundamentally, keeping kids alive isn’t rocket science. We’ve managed to survive since the days of cavemen (and dinosaurs—well, maybe not that long ago).
Yet, today’s generation of parents, of which I’m a proud member, is both the loudest and most easily perturbed. They’re fed up with feeling undervalued, and they’re not shy about expressing their frustration on social media, in blogs, and anywhere else they can voice their complaints. Just about anything can set them off, so choosing your words wisely is crucial if you don’t want to become the target of their ire.
You can’t compare them to pet owners (even if kids can be a bit like puppies); you shouldn’t suggest they’re doing anything less than perfect. Avoid calling a dad “Mr. Mom” or implying that being a stay-at-home parent isn’t a legitimate job. Also, don’t get into a debate about breastfeeding versus formula, or suggest that having two kids is inherently better than one. And for goodness’ sake, stay away from discussing circumcision—whether you’re for it or against it!
In short, there’s a narrow path of acceptable comments you can make to today’s parents without risking a backlash. So, to help you navigate these choppy waters, I’ve compiled a handy list of phrases that are safe to use. Tread carefully with anything outside of this list!
Safe Things to Say to Parents:
- Good morning!
- What a lovely child you have!
- Absolutely.
- You’re doing an amazing job!
- Let me help you with that door.
- You really know your stuff!
- Here’s some cash for you.
- More wine, anyone?
That’s it—just eight statements. Because let’s be honest: parenting can be tough, and sometimes it feels like a constant battle. But it’s also incredibly rewarding. Kids can be wonderful (at least mine are—yours might be a handful!).
In conclusion, if you want to keep the peace, stick to these safe phrases. If you’re interested in exploring more about family-building options, check out RESOLVE for excellent resources. And if you want to dive deeper into home insemination, visit this article for insights. For a comprehensive kit, consider this source for all your needs.
Summary
Engaging with parents can be tricky due to their heightened sensitivity. To avoid misunderstandings or offense, it’s best to stick to a few safe phrases. These include simple greetings, compliments, and offers of help or support. Always be aware that parenting comes with its challenges, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences. For more information on family-building options, check out useful resources available.