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My in-laws are driving me crazy
I know they mean well, and that it's their perogative as grandparents to spoil my kids. But they actually overrule me when I'm trying to discipline my kids! They say things like, "oh, who cares, just let it go." In FRONT of my kids!!! Ugh.
And my husband doesn't back me up, which makes it even worse.
2anglepines | October 16, 2008 | reply
I have the complete opposite problem, my inlaws only like to take photos of our kids, offer help but complain and keep telling us we can have a warm meal when the kids get older. My parents spoil the kids, but I kindly tell them, thanks but no thanks or even ask them to tell me when they are buying something if it is appropriate. Telling them time spend with them is enough too or even a little break for you and your husband.
ShannonDionne | September 19, 2008 | reply
That's when you have to be the bad guy unfortunately. I remember seeing an episode of Everybody Loves Raymond where Ray and his parents were always lenient and spoiled the kids. When his wife told him to be more of a stern dad, the kids hated him, but when he found a happy medium between being overly strict and setting clear rules and following them w/o being mean, the kids ended up respecting him more and didn't take advantage of him.
I know Everybody Loves Raymond is hardly reality... but I think the message is the same. Kids will always respect you more if you lay down the law sometimes and be their friend other times. Let your friends and family remain just that - and you stay the parent. OH - and talk to your in-laws! Let them know that undermining your authority in front of the kids is descructive.
AlishaK | August 7, 2008 | reply
