Unwanted advice!

jerseyleo · October 2012

Hi. My baby is a week old. By no means am I clueless about babies. I've always worked with children, baby sat since I was a kid, and have a little brother 20 years younger who spent more time with me than our mom( mom is great though). Sorry not much of an introduction but I am so fed up already and need to vent.

I'm already sick of people telling me what to do or not do with my daughter, especially my in laws. They just don't suggest things. They practically demand it. Their kids are in late 20s,come on times are different and they don't even have experience with girls. They all have sons. I know they try to be helpful by coming over to clean up and I appreciate it but they Rearrange the room. The baby kicks out of the swaddle and they tell me I must keep her tight or her legs will be crooked. And they practically tell me to get rid of my dog. A very well trained shih tzu who we love and hasnt done anything around the baby to scare. He hasn't even gotten close. Uggghhhhh. I can just go on and on.

What can I say without sounding like a witch but definitely make it known that I've had enough?

CaliVal · October 2012

Simply say, "I appreciate your opinion but we do this..." Should be enough. If they question you just tell them that it is your child, not theirs.

sadsadie · October 2012

Be polite but blunt. Tell them in no uncertain terms that you appreciate the help and support, but that under no circumstances are they to move your furniture, make disparaging remarks about your dog or offer unsolicited advice. If they try say "I'm sorry, but my choices are not open for discussion." Get DH to back you on this. Yes, they are his parents, but he chose you and needs to take your side.