A mother's struggle does not end after giving birth. Taking good care of your little one is a mother's true struggle. Not to mention, other mothers often make “harsh” comments about our children without realizing it. For example, comments about the baby's weight, body shape, or development, which are often compared to other children. While such questions may not intend to hurt a mother's feelings, did you know that comparing or making negative comments about someone else's child is considered baby shaming?
The definition of baby shaming itself is very broad. Usually, baby shaming refers to the practice of publishing photos or stories about the behavior of young children, especially babies or toddlers, that are considered “embarrassing” or “funny” by parents, caregivers, or others on social media. However, baby shaming often occurs in everyday life, for example, within the circle of friends, neighbors, and even one's own family.
So, how do we wisely deal with baby shaming without retaliating against the perpetrators? Let's take a look at how moms like Nikita Willy handle baby shaming.
Tips to Face Baby Shaming So You Don't Get Upset
Nikita Willy, Brand Ambassador of MAKUKU, shares her experience in dealing with baby shaming and differing parenting styles. According to moms Issa, staying silent is one of the best responses to such situations because parents are the ones who best understand and know what their own child needs.
“So, we can ignore negative comments from others. We can close our eyes and ears to what people say because only we know what's best for the family.”
The assessment from others can actually serve as input for us to consider as material for self-introspection. Thus, whatever others convey can be taken as a lesson. As moms Nikita also stated, “Even if there are negative comments, but there is a bit of input, we can accept it too.”
Moreover, being a mother in the digital era like today, Moms Nikita says that being a mother is difficult and even more challenging with the onslaught of social media. Because we will easily find people who are experts in their respective fields. And there are also many who will easily interfere in other people's affairs.
“Certainly, if a mother lacks mental strength, she will easily feel down and overthink things. My advice is that we should focus on what we have and what we are doing rather than focusing on listening to others,” she explained.
The Phenomenon of Baby Shaming Among Mothers
Every child has different growth and physical development. However, this should not be used as a benchmark, comparison, or an opportunity to criticize other children. The phenomenon of baby shaming has actually existed for a long time, whether in the form of jokes, questions, or subtle insinuations. Moms like Nikita also feel that many are already aware of this baby shaming phenomenon among mothers. Especially in today's digital era where all information is very accessible.
"Like all mom and baby activities, everyone can comment and that's normal. But it comes back to how we respond to those negative comments. If we know, it's definitely easier and wiser to use social media," said the mother of one child.
For that reason, moms, Nikita invites all mothers to focus on what we currently have. And we must always be happy, because according to her, a happy mother will create a happy family, and a happy family will create and raise happy children as well.
“Stay enthusiastic because the key to everything lies with the mother. We must be smart in using social media and not swallow all the information we receive whole. We must be able to filter what we read, receive, and think,” she concluded.
So, baby shaming is an act of mocking other babies. If you feel you've done it before, please don't do it again, moms. Even as a joke, baby shaming can hurt the parents' feelings. If continued, baby shaming can also leave scars on the little one later on.
Remember moms, little ones are also humans with feelings. Stop baby shaming so they can grow up healthy and happy. MAKUKU always supports the optimal growth and development of your little one. (Aq/MKK)
