Our girl is tall, and she has a lot of hair. This sometimes means that folks assume she is older than she is.
A couple weeks ago, we went out to breakfast at a new location of a favorite restaurant. One of the owners came by, being that they were in their first day of business, to see how everything was. She looked at Pumpkin and said, "You're too old for a binky!" (Now, I will confess, we are not exactly thrilled that she still uses a pacifier. But after talking with her pediatrician, he said it is fine for her and her teeth and it's better than her sucking her thumb, and he was more concerned that we get her off the bottle. So, that is what we are focusing on.) Why do we as parents do this to each other? I am sure I have been guilty (if not vocally, then in my internal dialogue) of judging another parent's choice. But it's hard enough being a parent without having to worry what other people think. In our conversation with the restaurant owner, when she realized Pumpkin was only 13 months old, she was surprised. She has twins, and at 2 they are still quite small. Maybe she didn't think she was too old for a paci after all. Maybe she did. Either way, she should have kept it to herself. I know it served as a reminder to me to try to remember that when I see another mom and child (or anyone, really) that I don't know their situation, and I shouldn't form an opinion on first impression, and certainly should keep it to myself if I do.
3 comments:
Really. Even if she was 17 and she was using it, it's none of that lady's business! Why people feel the need to express their opinion in situations where it is not wanted is beyond me.
I hear ya. Both of my kids are tall and look older than they are. When Tyler was 2 a mom told me he was rude because he didn't talk to her. I told her it was because he couldn't talk yet. She said "oh, I thought he was 4." I was so annoyed. Just try not to let it annoy you. There is nothing wrong with her having a paci. She is 13 months old!! My kids had their's for a long time still!
Tammy, I can only imagine that all you and Chris do are great things ....wonderful things. It is not easy to think that anyone would question or offer opinions, but they do. It's just the way people are.
I cannot imagine what it is like to have to be so thoughtful at all times as to your choices .... ya...worrying about what other people think is a huge drain, even if they are wondering good things.
She is just adorable!
Denise
xox
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