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Dealing with Unwanted Parenting Advice

How to stop the steady stream of baby advice without creating a war with your family and friends.

by: Elizabeth Pantley

hile an occasional, well-meaning comment may be okay, too much unsolicited parenting advice can be annoying and put a strain on relationships. Here are 10 ways to respond to unwanted baby advice: 

1. Listen before you react

It’s natural to be defensive if you feel you’re being judged. Chances are, you’re not being criticized; rather, the person is sharing what they feel to be valuable insight. Listen before you react. And, rather than starting an argument, it’s sometimes best to smile, nod, and make a non-committal response such as: “Interesting!” Then, go about your business–your way.