Raising Baby

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY

 

From TODAY, Voices

Wednesday, 11-February-2009

 

By Dr Bill Maier

 

My wife and I never knew we needed so much parenting advice until we had a baby. The minute our first child was born, the advice-givers started coming out of the woodwork!

 

If you’ve got a baby, I’m guessing you know what I mean. From nursing to napping, it seems like friends, relatives and even strangers never run short of parenting advice.

 

I try to remember that most of these people are well-meaning. Many have raised their own kids, and genuinely care about us and our new baby. Sometimes, we run across people who are simply know-it-alls and love to point out mistakes – but we just take it in stride. Our response to those folk is “Thanks for the advice ... we’ll certainly take it into consideration.”

 

If you’ve found yourself overwhelmed by all the “helpful advice” from friends and family members, don’t let it get you down.

 

Be happy that people care – just be selective about the advice you take.