Alex Drummond is about a year and a half into being a mom, and she’s already on her way to becoming a mom of two! So yes, she’s learned a thing or two along the way.
Of course, as Ree Drummond has shown us over the years, parenting is one of those jobs where you’re still learning even when your babies are grown, married, and having babies of their own. Ha! But Alex recently shared one topic she feels especially strongly about as a parent: unsolicited advice.
During a quick Q&A on Instagram Stories, someone asked Alex: “How to deal with unsolicited parenting opinions/advice 😫” Her answer? Well, let’s just say she had thoughts.
“I could write a dissertation on this topic considering the amount of unsolicited opinions about my child that people message me every single day 😂😂😂,” Alex wrote. She went on to explain that, while everyone may have an opinion, parents know their own children best.
“Everyone thinks they’re an expert and they know what’s best, but YOU know your child and your child’s day-to-day life so trust YOUR gut above all,” she said. “You are their parent for a reason!”
Alex also opened up about how overwhelming all that outside input can be, especially when you’re trying to enjoy life with your little one. “We aren’t meant to parent with this much outside noise and opinions,” she wrote. “I genuinely believe it can be so bad for your mental health and can suck so much joy from life with your babies.”
That said, Alex wasn’t saying parents should never ask for help. In fact, she encouraged people to turn to the right sources when they really do need guidance! “If you have a concern or want advice on something, ask/confide in people you trust and that know you and your child. Or your doctor!” she said.
As for the rest of the noise? Alex’s advice was simple: “If it’s outside that realm, IGNORE and move on,” she said. “Might sound harsh but otherwise it will drive you crazy if you take everyone else’s opinions to heart!”
Short, honest, and straight from the mom trenches.
