Questionable Parenting Advice: A Critical Overview

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As I strolled through the mall recently (thanks to the never-ending snow!), I stumbled upon a Leapster Explorer marked down by nearly 50%. Intrigued, I couldn’t help but think about how my child, while enjoying her collection of puzzles and blocks, would undoubtedly prefer to spend her entire day immersed in her electronic devices.

Like many parents, I strive to limit her screen time during the week. However, in moments of desperation—such as during car rides, grocery shopping, or particularly challenging diaper changes—I find myself handing over a device to maintain peace. With a lengthy road trip on the horizon, the reduced price of the Leapster was hard to resist. Yet, before making a purchase, I sought validation for my decision. Unfortunately, I came across a lengthy essay by an individual convinced that her upbringing philosophy—where toys and screens were banned—was the only correct path.

Reflecting on my parenting journey over the past two years, I’ve encountered a considerable amount of dubious advice. Below are a few highlights:

1. “Just have a glass of wine.” This suggestion came from a technician following a prenatal scan. While I appreciate the sentiment, it’s not the most insightful guidance.
2. “Cocoa butter contains caffeine!” A sales clerk at a maternity store insisted this was true when I declined her offer of stretch mark cream, favoring my preferred brand instead.
3. “Only take her out if she’s in a carrier.” This advice from our pediatrician nearly kept me housebound for weeks, as my child was too small for the Baby Bjorn at birth.
4. “Bite back.” A family friend suggested I bite my baby’s arm in response to her biting during breastfeeding. I was surprised by this approach!
5. “Sleep when the baby sleeps.” Although practical, this advice is often frustrating for new parents who find it challenging to take this time for themselves.
6. “Put her in the crib, close the door, and turn up the radio.” My grandmother relayed this piece of advice she received, though she never had to resort to it herself.
7. “More daytime wakefulness means better nighttime sleep.” After struggling with sleep issues for 11 months, I find this advice utterly perplexing.
8. “If that were my child, I’d add whiskey to the bottle.” This comment from my aunt solidified her status as someone who shouldn’t be alone with my child.
9. “Never let her cry.” A cousin’s wife passionately advised me to hold my child to sleep every night, demonstrating a very different parenting approach—thankfully, that cousin is now divorced.
10. “It gets better.” While well-meaning, this phrase can feel dismissive, especially to new parents dealing with challenging situations.

In reflecting on these experiences, I encourage fellow parents to share their own encounters with misguided advice. For more insights and discussions on similar topics, check out our other blog posts at Intracervical Insemination Blog.

For those navigating their own journeys in parenthood, resources like NHS IVF Information and Fertility Booster for Men can provide valuable guidance.

Summary

Parenting is often accompanied by unsolicited and questionable advice. From suggestions to have a drink after a prenatal scan to more bizarre recommendations like biting a child back for biting, many well-meaning tips can be less than helpful. It’s crucial for parents to sift through this advice and find what truly works for them and their families.