My MIL started off great. She has raised three children who still rely very heavily on their parents. Two of them still ring her everyday for Her opinion on everything and don't have any life outside of her. She likes it like that. She doesn't like the fact that I was raised very Independant and is always telling me how to do everything (parenting included). I like her but she thinks everything must be done her way and has told my children whilst babysitting "not listen to your mum only me because mummy doesn't know anything". I don't want to burn bridges with her but really want her to know I don't want my children raised anything like hers. How do I approach this without conflict?
2 Replies
You need to take it slowly. Slip things into conversation that you are 'worried' about how to teach your kids independence and self reliance because nobodies parents live for ever.
Expose her to a new way of thinking. At the moment she thinks in a way that's all about getting herself attention. Ask her opinion on how to teach self reliance. It might be enough. Make sure your partner is in board too.
I would reduce the amount if time she has with the kids if she is saying disrespectful stuff though. She sounds very immature and self centered.
Unfortunately we don't have a world or a life without conflict. You can be polite while been stern and staying strong. You can't control her reaction, if she chooses to react badly then oh well!