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Category: Relationships During Pregnancy

Asked by MDD2011

Q: Sister-in-law and her opinions

So my sister-in-law is a very opinionated woman (and usually to the extreme) and has 2 kids (ages 8 and 7). This is mine and my husband's first child and she seems to have an opinion on EVERYTHING we are doing. She's telling us that everything we are registering for is unnecessary and stupid. She didn't agree with the crib we bought or stroller. I want to cloth diaper and she has told us she is very anti-cloth diaper and doesn't know why we would even choose that. I understand she's a mother and some things she is trying to help us with based on her experiences, but everything comes across so negative and like her way is the only way. I have friends with children and ask their advice and respect their advice. I don't know how to handle my sister-in-law and deal with all her negativity. Anyone else have someone like this? What did you do? What's going to happen once I start making parenting decisions??

This question was asked Apr. 15, 2014 9:49pm
Category: Relationships During Pregnancy

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Answers (3)

Answered by Mrs.Mom - Apr. 16, 2014 2:49pm
You will find with pregnancy and then actually having the child, that people's opinions can be well...annoying! My MIL used to constantly tell me I HAVE to have two children. I cannot just have one. And we weren't sure if we were going to have two or not. Every time, I'd try to smile and politely say "we will see". I think people forget what it was like to be a first time mom. I would continue to politely push back and then one day just set her straight if you have to. Or continue to say openly in front of her "I'm so tired of hearing people's negative opinions about what we're doing with our child"...things like that. Maybe she will take the hint.

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Answered by jennavee - Apr. 16, 2014 2:48pm
I second everything Emma said! Also, explain to your sister-in-law that while you respect her experience, you are going to choose what you feel is best for your family. If she continues to give you unsolicited advice or be pushy just smile and nod! lol

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Answered by emmapeal9 - Apr. 15, 2014 10:25pm
Your sister in law may be reaching out and sharing her unsolicited opinion because she's excited to be part of this baby's life. However, this is your child to raise and you have every right to make your own decisions.
Secondly, I would stop sharing information with her. If she plans to knit-pick every choice you make, withdraw your choices from her. She doesn't need to know everything.
Hope it gets better. :)

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