What do I do if my family isn't interested in my son?

9 years ago

Basically, my mother is not in the picture and shows no interest for her first grandchild, and it seems as if her mother and siblings have the same feelings. My son is turning 1 in a week and I invited everyone, but no one can go (which no one made the baby shower the year before either). But my aunt is having a BBQ the following day and everyone is going to be there.

My family complains that I am more involved with my in-laws but that's because they actually make the effort to see us and drive to our house.

Should I talk to them about it, or just stop inviting them?

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Comments (3)

sushipup1
9 years ago
Keep inviting them, just don't expect anything. If you stop inviting them, that will cause more blow-back. And enjoy your nice relationship with the in-laws!
BB Galore
9 years ago
Jacquelyn, what a bummer that your mom and her siblings can't find joy in being around your baby. But, as long as you and your husband are cuckoo for your little spud, and his daddy's family are there to love all over him, try to not get discouraged.

Some people are weird around babies. They stress out over crying, freak out over poop diapers, worry that they may hurt a fragile little baby, or don't really feel comfortable with babbling, irrational toddlers.

Personally, I came here tonight feeling nostalgic for the days when my own kids were babies.

What's important is that you cherish your little guy, and enjoy each new stage of childhood as it comes. Don't let an uninvolved grandparent, aunt, or uncle rob you of your joy! I know it's cliche, but it really does goby so fast. And I agree with Sushipup: keep inviting them, but don't have any expectations. I hope your Christmas was lovely.
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lam702
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It's so hard for me to understand a disinterested grandparent. I would be thrilled to death if I ever have a grandchild. My father is a very disinterested grandfather. My mother, on the other hand, adored her grandchildren. (she and my father were divorced many years ago) As my children grew up, they had a loving relationship with Grandma, but not so with Grandpa, who took no interest in them at all. I feel that Grandpa is the one who lost out, he chose not to establish any kind of relationship with his grandchildren and now that they are adults, they are polite if they see him, but have no real interest in him either. He is like a distant relative that they barely know. I agree with the post who said invite them but don't expect much. My kids grew up fine without Grandpa in their lives, what is important is that you have a warm and loving relationship with him. And yes they surely do grow up fast!

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What do I do if my family isn't interested in my son?

Comments (3)

sushipup1

BB Galore

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lam702

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