How to react to criticism of the mother-in-law about the upbringing of the child?

You are on good terms with the father-in-law and mother-in-law, but you are being driven out of yourself by their manner of interfering with your life, constantly giving you advice, in particular regarding the upbringing of your child? Councils that you did not ask for raising children are difficult to swallow, but when they are presented as criticisms of your methods of upbringing, it's easy enough not to stand up and tell your relatives everything that you think about their uninvited advice. How to act in this situation, try to explain or silently tolerate?


It is worthwhile to be ready for the fact that the relatives of the husband will start expressing their opinion about the methods of raising their grandson early or late, and any detail can be subjected to criticism: toys, food ration, books, time for going to bed. In most cases, the reaction to criticism is prone to cutting and rough, but it can bring, which is understandable, more harm than the reason. There are several tactics that will help to get out of this situation with dignity.

The first tactic: do not criticize the value

One of the best ways to save peace in the family is simply to ignore criticism. In this case, your standard reaction to criticism should be a friendly smile, instead of indignation or embarrassment. Smoothly smile and say that their advice is valuable, but you will not apply them until you discuss them with the pediatrician. After that, change the subject to take the conversation off to a safe channel. There is no sense in trying to convince the husband's relatives that you are right - this often leads to nothing, as everyone will remain at their opinion, whatever arguments are given.

At the same time, remember that not all information is verbally transmitted, which is perceived by the interlocutor. Watch your movements, facial expressions and gestures - they should not in any way express resentment or dissatisfaction. It would be a great mistake to pursue your lips with a frown or a faint glance of the eyes. Treat your husband's parents with understanding, because you are the grandfather and grandmother of your child and just want him to be okay.

The second tactic: respectfully object

If you are used to arguing with everyone and never hide your opinion, then it is unlikely that you will simply remain silent in response to criticism. Do not be afraid. In fact, opinion is not so important, as in what form it is formulated. Try not to fly away from the indignation from the brakes, but to respond with respect and tact. It is clear that the majority of women criticize their methods of child upbringing is perceived with hostility, but remember that the mother-in-law simply feels like being involved in family affairs and useful. Are you sure that in response you want to make a scandal?

Politely thank for the wise advice and interest shown, and then say that you need to understand yourself, so you will rely on your experience. So you can satisfy your need to speak out, but do not make your mother-in-law your enemy.

The third tactic: to find a compromise solution

In some cases, a fresh look from the outside can help to look at the situation from a new angle. Even if you have already gotten involved in the race, then try to stop and think about whether there are any useful suggestions in the proposed councils. It is possible that this will help find a common sense in them and give an opportunity to bring the conversation back to constructive work.

Fourth tactic: ask your husband for support

If you understand that in no way do you get to listen to criticism of your methods of education, then you can try not to respond to your mother-in-law directly. Get out of the answer and contact your husband. Without accusations and insults, tell him what you think about the undesirable advice of his relatives and ask him to be a mediator in the next conversation with a sobriety so that your words are not perceived as excuses or insults.

Finally, you always have the opportunity to pretend that you will follow the advice and continue to act as you need. No one can force you to do anything. You are the mother, and only you decide how you should educate your child and what advice on his upbringing you should listen to and which ones to ignore.