When I was pregnant I received so much advice. Family and friends, random people in the grocery store, social media, the internet – they all had advice to give me even when I wasn’t asking for it.
So how do you sort through all this advice?
How do you know what to listen to and what to ignore?
Tips to handle parenting advice:
- Rely on credible sources of information. The person in line at the grocery store may mean well but may not be the most reliable source of information.
- Check with your health care provider or Public Health nurse before you act on any advice.
- Search online for current and reliable information. Make sure the information is supported by evidence and facts and written by health professionals or experts in the field.
- Ask questions you want answers to and ignore all of the unwanted advice. Learn how to smile, nod, say thank you and move on.
- Trust your instincts and do what works for you. Nobody knows you and your baby better than you. What works for someone else may not work for you.
It takes time but after a while, you will know what advice to listen to and what to ignore!
What advice would you give to a new parent? Leave a comment below and share some advice that has made a positive difference for you.
If you have questions about taking care of baby, speak to a Public Health Nurse on eChat or call (416) 338-7600.
