Handling Unsolicited Parenting Advice

Everyone has opinions about your parenting. Here's how to handle them.

Why It Happens

People mean well (usually). They want to help, connect, or share what worked for them.

Response Strategies

• Thank and redirect: "Thanks for the suggestion! We're happy with what we're doing."
• Cite the expert: "Our pediatrician recommended this approach."
• Non-committal: "Interesting, I'll think about that."
• Humor: "Our baby didn't read the manual either!"
• Direct: "I know you're trying to help, but I've got this."

Setting Boundaries

It's okay to say: "I'm not looking for advice right now, just support." Real friends and family will respect this.