Don’t Roll Your Eyes at My Parenting Choices

And the Walmart Saga continues! Let me set the stage. The same woman who asked the names of my children (you can read that story here) also asked if my 7 month old was eating solids. I said, “no, she hasn’t reached the appropriate milestones yet. Once she can sit and she loses her tongue-thrust reflex we will start”. Why I didn’t just say “no” is still beyond me. Maybe because I feel education is important. I don’t know. At any rate, she rolled her eyes and said, “oh please. They always change that”. EXACTLY. Research is always being done. We know more now than we did five years ago. Compared to the information that was available to our parents when we were babies – everything is drastically different! Now, if you know me you know I can be feisty when it comes to my kids. But I bit my tongue and smiled. I really wanted to say to this lady, “don’t roll your eyes at my parenting choices,” but I refrained.

What can you do as a new parent when your parenting choices are questioned?

Don’t get emotional. You’re making the decision that is best for your family. Be confident in your decision and hold your head high.
Defer to a “higher power”. Try saying, “I’m doing what the pediatrician suggested and I trust them”.
Remove yourself from the situation. Find an excuse to leave – be it the restroom, checking on your child, refreshing your drink. Just leave. You don’t need that kind of negativity.
Shut them down. Say, “Thanks for your input but I’ve done my research and I’m confident in my decision.”

Lessons learned from this trip to Walmart:

Everyone is going to have an opinion no matter what you’re doing.
You are capable of making the best decisions for your child.
Pay no mind to others’ opinions.
Do not talk to strangers.

Other Blogs You May Like

Survive the Holidays – Tips for Dealing with Unsolicited Parenting Opinions
Family Time is Fun but Disrupted Naps are HELL!
The One Word All Parents Should Know: No