Mom friendships can be rare gems, and once you connect with a fellow mom, it’s essential to nurture that bond. However, one misstep can quickly turn a budding friendship into a thing of the past. If you’re looking to sabotage your relationship with your mom friend, here are 10 surefire ways to do just that:
- Flake on Playdates: Arrange a playdate and then bail without any notice. Reliability is crucial, and being flaky will definitely earn you a spot on the “do not call” list.
- Overparent During Playtime: Constantly hover over your child while they play. Use your child’s voice to point fingers at your friend’s kid. “Why won’t Danny share the truck? Is he being a bully?”
- Brag About Milestones: Mention how your child has mastered all milestones ahead of schedule. Comparing kids is a recipe for disaster in friendships.
- Inquire About Testing: Ask if her child has been evaluated for various conditions. “Oh, Danny isn’t walking yet? Has he been checked for something serious?”
- Critique Her Parenting: Offer unsolicited judgments about her parenting choices, making sure to wear a disapproving expression.
- Seek Her Judgment: Ask her opinion on your parenting methods, then take offense at her feedback.
- Share Disturbing Internet Stories: Relay frightening parenting anecdotes you stumbled upon online, but be sure to skip citing your sources.
- Probe About Birth Stories: Show faux interest in her birthing experience, only to turn it into a comparison with your own in a passive-aggressive way.
- Gossip with Others: Share your opinions about her parenting style with other mom friends. This is a guaranteed way to cause a rift.
- Stir Controversy: Bring up one of the major parenting debates—stay-at-home vs. working moms, vaccinations, or feeding choices—and instigate a heated discussion.
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In summary, maintaining a mom friendship requires mindfulness and sensitivity to various topics. Avoid these pitfalls, and you’ll have a better chance of keeping that precious connection alive.