Updated: August 20, 2023
Originally Published: April 13, 2015
Parents can often be a sensitive bunch. Perhaps it’s because they are the ultimate critics, making them particularly sensitive to perceived insults. The parenting community frequently feels “victimized” (and yes, the quotes are intentional) by a variety of situations.
In recent years, it’s become increasingly challenging to share opinions with parents without risking offense. Each day brings fresh complaints about how parents are treated—by restaurants, childless individuals, fellow parents, airlines (which often have a point), and even their own kids. Often, these grievances stem from parents’ own inflated sense of significance.
While parenting is undoubtedly a noble and demanding role, it’s not a new concept. At its core—ensuring the survival of the next generation—it’s not particularly difficult. Yes, it can be inconvenient and stressful, but keeping children alive isn’t rocket science. We’ve survived much worse, right? Just think back to the days of cavemen or even the medieval period.
The current generation of parents, which I am a part of, tends to be the most outspoken and easily irritated in history. Today’s parents are fed up with feeling undervalued and are vocal about it. They vent on social media, write blog posts, and express their frustrations at the slightest provocation. This means that conversations with parents must be approached with caution to avoid becoming the subject of their next rant.
You can’t draw comparisons between parenting and pet ownership (even if children can sometimes resemble pets). Avoid suggesting they’re making mistakes, calling a dad “Mr. Mom,” or implying that one parenting choice is inherently superior to another. Topics like single-child versus multi-child households, sleep training methods, or even decisions around circumcision should be handled delicately.
In essence, there’s a narrow path of acceptable comments you can make to parents without inciting backlash. Here’s a handy list of safe statements:
- Good morning.
- What a lovely child!
- Absolutely.
- You are doing an amazing job.
- Let me help you with that door.
- You clearly have a knack for this!
- Here’s some money for you.
- More wine?
That’s the entire list—just eight phrases. Because, let’s face it, parenting can often be a grind. However, that doesn’t negate the immense rewards that come with it. Kids can be fantastic. Mine are wonderful, while yours may be a bit more of a handful.
Oops, I mean: “Absolutely.”
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In summary, engaging parents requires a delicate touch. With this list of safe phrases, you can navigate conversations without stepping on any toes. Just remember to approach with care!