Am I Wrong for Setting Boundaries with MIL Over Parenting Criticisms?

AITA for setting boundaries with my MIL who constantly questions my parenting decisions, leading to a rift in the family dynamic?

Davy

Published in Interesting
August 8, 2025

Am I Wrong for Setting Boundaries with MIL Over Parenting Criticisms?

Are you the antagonist or just a protective parent? Picture this: you've got a toddler and a newborn, and here comes your mother-in-law, armed with a barrage of unsolicited parenting advice.

Sound familiar? Many parents face similar situations where family members overstep their boundaries.

In this Reddit thread, a mom shares her story of standing up to her MIL after constant criticism of her parenting choices. The breaking point?

Questioning her ability to care for her own children. The post sparked a wave of responses, overwhelmingly siding with the mom.

From sharing similar experiences to applauding her for setting boundaries, Redditors chimed in to offer support and validation. It's a classic tale of navigating the delicate balance between familial relationships and asserting one's authority as a parent.

The consensus seems to be clear - boundaries are crucial, especially when it comes to parenting. The age-old adage of 'it takes a village to raise a child' doesn't give anyone a free pass to undermine a parent's decisions.

So, where do you stand on this parenting dilemma? Share your thoughts and vote: AITA for refusing to let my MIL see my children after she questioned my parenting skills?

Original Post

I (30F) have two young children, one toddler and a newborn. My mother-in-law (MIL) (60F) has always been very vocal about her opinions on parenting.

Since the birth of my first child, she's made comments about my choices - from feeding to sleep routines. As a new mom, it was tough to hear constant criticisms.

Recently, she visited and saw my newborn crying. Instead of offering support, she asked if I was doing things right.

It really hurt me, and I told her firmly that I know what's best for my kids. After she left, she sent a long text about 'Just trying to help' and 'Wanting the best for her grandkids'.

I lost it. I replied that her constant questioning was not helping and that I needed her to respect my decisions as a parent.

She hasn't reached out since. My husband thinks I was too harsh, and now he's caught in the middle.

I don't want her around my kids until she understands and respects my parenting. So, AITA?