Communicating with Family Members and Loved Ones

With so many parenting approaches out there, it seems that almost everyone has a different take or opinion when it comes to raising children. Have you noticed that you are raising your child differently than the way you were raised? If so, have you experienced your own family members questioning your approach? We’re here to help you learn how to navigate these conversations with your family members and loved ones. It’s a sticky subject, so let’s try to work through it! 

Remember, your parenting
approach is entirely your decision.
Your family and loved ones don’t have to be on board. We do understand that you may want them on board, though, so we’ve found a few ways for you to gain their support.

If a family member has a concern, hear them out.This especially goes for those people in your life that you trust and respect. Listen to what they have to say and consider what they’re saying—they may have ideas that you haven’t yet considered.  Your child’s well-being is top priority! So before you get defensive, hear them out! It’s likely they are speaking out of concern rather than criticism.

Explain your philosophies and your approach. Be open and clear about the practices you’ve adopted that may be different from what they’re used to or are familiar with. Be confident and know what you are talking about! You chose your parenting approach for a reason, so share your reasoning and try to help them understand. A good place to start is to understand your own motivations behind the parenting approach you’ve chosen. For example, you’ve decided to feed your child a vegan diet, but your mother thinks it’s too strict and not nutritious enough. If you want her to understand why you’ve made this decision, make sure you can communicate your reasons and the benefits!

If you feel it’s gone too far, stop the conversation. Don’t let it continue. The phrase, “Let’s agree to disagree” can come in handy here. When it comes down to it, this is a decision that doesn’t involve anyone outside of the family. If your family member still doesn’t understand, then you can stop the conversation and move on. Try to find a common ground and stray away from conversations that involve parenting differences.

 

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