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When Others Criticize Your Parenting, You Can Listen But Not Agree

Last Updated: September 14, 2009

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Parenting Tips for Your 17-18 Month Old Toddler

Sometimes the other adults in your life seem to be criticizing you all the time. It’s hard to be calm when someone is putting you down, but the way you respond can make a big difference. You can let them know that you ACCEPT what they say, but you don’t have to AGREE with them. By accepting, you’re simply saying, “I hear you.”

Here are some accepting words you can use to give yourself a little breathing room and avoid arguments.

  • So you think I....
  • I’ll think about what you said....
  • I can see how you might feel that way....

If you don’t argue, it’s hard for others to keep putting you down.


Learn more about Your Toddler: 17-18 Months from Just In Time Parenting. You can also go to our Resource Links for additional information on child care and development.


Note to Parents: When reading this newsletter, remember: Every baby is different. Children may do things earlier or later than described here. This newsletter gives equal space and time to both sexes. If he or she is used, we are talking about all babies.
References: These materials were adapted by authors from Extension Just in Time Parenting Newsletters in California, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Tennessee, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Wisconsin.

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