Hey there! So, as a dad of three kids (ages 6 months, 5, and 7), I often find myself on the receiving end of unsolicited parenting advice, both online and off. I get it; you think you’ve discovered the secret to parenting, and you want to share it. But honestly? Sometimes I just wish you’d keep your thoughts to yourself. Here are a few gems I’ve encountered, along with how I’d love to respond—if I weren’t such a nice guy.
1. “Shouldn’t he be wearing a jacket?”
Of course, he probably should be! But you know what? He’s a seven-year-old with the attention span of a goldfish! I told him to get a jacket, but let’s be real—getting him to listen is a battle. Between the nightly wrestling match to get him in the tub and juggling everything else, I’m letting him learn some lessons the hard way, even if that means a few goosebumps. Can you deal with that? Because I can.
2. “You know, breastfeeding is better for babies.”
Wow, thanks for that medical advice! But here’s the real deal: my wife intended to breastfeed our first kid, but after a month, she had to return to work because her employer only gave her a month off and didn’t provide a private place to pump. So she switched to formula. Sorry if that doesn’t fit your view of perfect parenting, but we’re still friends, right?
3. “If you really loved your kids, you wouldn’t let them eat at McDonald’s.”
Look, if you had kids, you’d understand. McDonald’s is basically a parenting rite of passage. I hate it as much as you do, but sometimes it’s just easier to let them have that Happy Meal, just like you love your overpriced coffee fix. It’s not about love; it’s about keeping the peace!
4. “Keeping a clean house with kids isn’t so hard.”
Oh really? Please enlighten me on your secrets! Because for me, “maintaining” a house means finding underwear in the freezer and Silly Putty between the couch cushions—seriously, it’s been there for over a year. What does “maintaining” even look like in your world? Because my kids are like little tornadoes of chaos!
5. “Your baby would sleep through the night if you let her cry it out.”
You might be right, but I just can’t do it. I can’t be that parent. So I’ll endure the sleepless nights instead of letting my baby cry alone. Next time I mention how tired I am, how about you just nod and let me vent instead of giving me advice?
6. “Preventing public tantrums starts at home.”
I’m guessing you had a different experience raising kids. I try my best to teach my kids how to behave, but sometimes they act like little wildlings in public. Most of the time, they’re sweet and lovely, so please remember that the crazy display you witnessed is just a moment. It’s all part of them learning—so just bear with us, alright?
If you’re looking for more parenting insights, check out this post on our other blog! And if you’re interested in family-building options, this is an excellent resource.
Summary
Parenting is full of unsolicited advice that can be frustrating to deal with. From comments about jackets to breastfeeding, fast food, and cleaning tips, it’s vital to remember that every family situation is unique. While it’s easy to think you know best, sometimes it’s better to let parents do their thing.