Grandma Leaves Her 13-Month-Old Grandson Hungry for Hours Because She Thinks He Is Too Young for Solid Food, Unlike What His Mom Believes
He refused to eat yogurt or puree, so she didn't offer him the sandwich, crackers, fruit cups, or cauliflower tots his mom packed for him.
A mom decided that her mother-in-law is not a trustworthy babysitter — it's the latest installment of her saga from the Just No MIL subreddit. Her history with her MIL and her family taught OP not to care about their opinions.
She and her husband decided to leave their 13-month-old son with MIL while OP went to the salon. Their son was with his grandma from noon to 4:40 p.m. while OP got her hair dyed.
Her MIL sent photos to OP throughout her salon appointment. Her son looked like he was having a ton of fun with his grandma, so OP, for once, had no worries.
OP's distrust returned when she picked her son up from her MIL's place. OP was told that her son refused to eat the yogurt or puree she packed for him.
He hadn't had lunch, not even a snack. OP stood frozen; she was confused because she packed a variety of food for her son to choose from.
He preferred solid food at that time, so OP made sure to include a crustless peanut butter and jelly sandwich, cauliflower tots, Goldfish crackers, and fruit cups in his bag. He could have eaten those when he rejected the puree and yogurt.
For a reason OP couldn't fathom, her MIL refused to give her son solid food. OP suspected it was because she wanted him to stay a baby since she didn't spend a lot of time with him when he was little due to the pandemic.
OP Talked to Her Husband When She Got Home
u/PacificNorthwestMomThey Decided to Keep Their Opinions to Themselves for a While So as Not to Upset MIL, Who Just Celebrated Her Birthday
u/PacificNorthwestMomThey Also Thought Their Advice Would Fall on Deaf Ears. They Just Won't Let Her Babysit for Some Time.
u/PacificNorthwestMom
Understanding Grandparent-Grandchild Dynamics
The relationships between grandparents and grandchildren can be complex, often influenced by differing parenting philosophies.
Research in developmental psychology highlights how these dynamics can impact a child’s emotional development.
Grandparents may have their own beliefs about child-rearing that can clash with those of the parents, leading to tension.
Looks Like OP Is Finally Done Worrying About Her MIL's Approval
u/PacificNorthwestMom
Other Parents Think That OP's MIL Believes She Is a Better Parent Than OP
invinoveritasbitch
To Her, It Was Better to Ignore a Child's Needs Than to Admit That OP Correctly Gauged Her Own Son's Eating Habits
yehnahoksure
In this scenario, the grandmother's belief about solid food for infants might stem from outdated practices or personal experiences.
According to studies published in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology, generational differences in parenting styles can create significant conflicts within families.
Understanding these differences is key to resolving misunderstandings.
OP Packed Age-Appropriate Food for Her Son. MIL Just Didn't Want to Admit That a Toddler Needs More Than Pureed Fruit and Yogurt.
The_One_True_Imp
This Should Be Enough Reason for MIL to Never Babysit Again. OP's Kid May Have Had Fun, But Is It Worth Him Going Hungry for Hours When Food Is Within Reach?
RoxyMcfly
MIL Really Went Against the Cliché of Grandmas Feeding Their Grandchildren Throughout the Day Because They Are Always Too Thin in Their Eyes
redavis997
The Role of Communication in Family Dynamics
Effective communication is essential for healthy family relationships, especially when differing opinions arise.
Psychologists recommend using 'I' statements to express feelings and needs without assigning blame.
Research indicates that open dialogue can reduce tension and foster mutual respect among family members.
OP Is Not the Only Parent Maneuvering Around Their In-Law's Outdated Parenting Philosophies to the Detriment of Their Own Kids
sandovalsayshi
OP made the right decision to suspend her MIL's babysitting privileges indefinitely. She must have had a lot of self-control not to rage at her MIL when she found out that she allowed her son to stay hungry for hours just to prove she knew better.
Given OP's reaction to the latest stunt her MIL pulled, I don't think this is her worst offense. OP and her husband should be wary of leaving their son with his grandma in the future.
Addressing differing parenting styles requires sensitivity and a willingness to listen.
Studies show that when family members approach conflicts with empathy, they are more likely to achieve resolution.
Creating a family agreement on child-rearing practices can also help clarify expectations.
Psychological Analysis
This situation illustrates the challenges that can arise when differing parenting philosophies collide.
It's essential for family members to engage in open discussions about their beliefs and practices to foster understanding and cooperation.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Conflicts surrounding parenting practices often arise from differing values and experiences.
Research indicates that effective communication and a willingness to understand each other's perspectives are essential for resolving these issues.
Ultimately, prioritizing the child's well-being while respecting familial relationships is key.
