Ever felt a little sidelined when your kids turn to someone else for advice? It’s a feeling many parents grapple with, especially in multi-generational households. A recent article on Business Insider titled “Moving in with my mom and older sister showed me it's OK if my kids go to someone else for advice” dives into this very topic with a heartfelt story: a family moving in with extended relatives, where the kids naturally sought guidance from their grandmother or aunt instead of their parent. At first, this might feel like a challenge to parental authority — but what if it’s actually a positive shift in family dynamics that could benefit everyone involved? Let’s unpack this unexpected parenting insight.
The Changing Face of Advice in Families
We often think of the parent as the ultimate advisor, the go-to for every question or worry a child has. But as families become more interconnected and multi-generational living grows, the sources of advice children lean on are diversifying. This isn’t about parents losing their role; it’s about creating a richer, more supportive environment.
- Why it happens: Kids may seek advice from relatives for many reasons—different perspectives, more patience, or simply a fresh voice.
- Emotional benefits: Having multiple trusted adults creates a safety net for children’s emotional needs.
- Parent relief: Parents get a breather from being the sole source of guidance, which can ease stress and improve communication.
But how should parents interpret this shift? Is it a warning sign or an opportunity?
Data Speaks: Support Networks Are Critical for Family Wellbeing
Research consistently shows that children who have access to multiple supportive adults tend to have better emotional and social outcomes. According to a 2024 study published in the Journal of Family Psychology, kids with extended family support show increased resilience and improved problem-solving skills.
That makes sense: diverse advice offers children a wider toolkit to handle challenges. It also helps parents to share the load, making parenting less isolating and more sustainable.
What This Means for Modern Parenthood
Accepting that kids might go to grandma or an aunt for advice isn’t about giving up control. Instead, it’s an evolution toward a more collaborative, connected family dynamic. Parents can benefit from tapping into this system by:
- Encouraging open communication between all adults involved in their children’s lives.
- Recognizing the value of different voices in shaping their child’s worldview.
- Reducing guilt and pressure by understanding that parenting is a team effort.
This progressive approach reflects a larger trend seen in fertility and parenting journeys where support and community networks are vital. For example, companies like MakeAMom recognize that building families is often a collective endeavor. Their home insemination kits empower people to pursue parenthood outside clinical settings, but success often depends on emotional and logistical support nearby—from partners, family, or friends.
Building Your Own Supportive Nestful
If you’re navigating parenthood, fertility challenges, or simply want to improve your family’s communication, consider how expanding your support network could help. Here are some simple ways to implement this:
- Invite extended family involvement in meaningful conversations.
- Create safe spaces for your kids to express themselves without judgment.
- Use resources designed for at-home family support, like MakeAMom’s reusable insemination kits, which are discreet and cost-effective alternatives for people seeking alternative paths to parenthood.
Wrapping It Up
So, is it really okay if your kids ask someone else for advice? More than okay—it’s probably a good thing. It means your family has a strong, multi-layered foundation, where your children can find wisdom and comfort from multiple trusted sources.
By embracing this shift, parents can foster healthier relationships and share the joys and challenges of raising children. After all, parenting doesn’t have to be a solo journey.
What’s your experience with kids seeking advice beyond the immediate parent? Have you noticed positive changes? Let’s start the conversation below and build a stronger, more connected parenting community together!