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Dana Hoff/Getty ImagesEvery parent has encountered questionable advice at some point. Whether it’s outdated child-rearing methods or impractical suggestions from individuals who’ve never raised kids, most new parents master the skill of politely nodding and swiftly changing the topic.
But what about those jaw-droppingly bad parenting tips that make you pause and immediately call your family? We’re referring to advice so absurd it sticks with you for years. Do people still give alcohol to infants? Are there parents who genuinely think TVs can substitute as babysitters? Shockingly, yes. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most outrageous parenting advice out there. We’ll cover misguided tips for every age group and debunk a controversial practice that’s both risky and on the rise. (Hint: It involves sharing a bed with a tiny companion.)
10: Letting Your Baby Cry Himself to Sleep
A baby's cry is a form of communication.
Peter Cade/Getty ImagesWhile your baby might eventually cry himself to sleep, it’s not an ideal approach.
For infants under 6 months, crying always serves a valid purpose. Your baby might be signaling hunger, fatigue, the need for a diaper change, or simply craving affection in the only way they know how. At this stage, babies haven’t yet grasped the concept of cause and effect, so responding to their cries won’t spoil them. Addressing their needs promptly helps them feel secure, reduces anxiety, and teaches them they are valued—a crucial lesson for their development.
9: Avoid Swaddling Your Baby
Swaddling has been a timeless practice for soothing infants. Although wrapping a baby snugly in a blanket might appear restrictive or harsh to adults, it provides a sense of comfort and security to newborns.
Research indicates that swaddling decreases crying, calms anxious infants by lowering their breathing and heart rates, and promotes longer, uninterrupted sleep. It has also been linked to a reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) for babies placed on their backs. Additionally, parents who swaddle often notice how it soothes their babies, creating a calming, almost sedative effect that benefits both the child and exhausted caregivers.
Swaddling dates back to ancient times! The earliest evidence of swaddling comes from 4000 B.C., when nomadic groups in central Asia carried swaddled infants on board-like backpacks. The practice was also common among the ancient Greeks and Romans and is even referenced in the Bible.
8: Applying Whiskey to Soothe Teething Babies' Gums
While whiskey might have been a go-to remedy in the days of horse-drawn carriages, modern science offers safer alternatives for easing teething pain. Although a small amount of alcohol might temporarily numb your baby’s discomfort, it can also be life-threatening. Even a teaspoon of whiskey or brandy can intoxicate an infant, potentially leading to hypoglycemia, seizures, or respiratory failure. It’s best to keep alcohol far away from your little one.
There are numerous safe and effective ways to comfort a teething baby. Offer a chilled, damp washcloth, frozen teething toys, or gently massage their gums with a clean finger. Distraction can also work wonders—extra cuddles or one-on-one time might be all your baby needs to feel better and sleep more soundly.
Teething babies tend to be more restless at night. This is because teeth often move through the gums more actively during nighttime, leading to increased irritability after bedtime.
7: Bed Sharing With Your Child Is Completely Safe
While sleeping close to your child is beneficial, there’s a distinct difference between co-sleeping and bed sharing. Co-sleeping, where parents sleep within arm’s reach of their baby, is considered safe and is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for infants, particularly in their first year. Co-sleeping setups often involve separate sleeping spaces like bedside cradles or bassinets, making nighttime feedings easier, enhancing bonding, and helping babies fall asleep more comfortably.
On the other hand, bed sharing involves parents and babies sleeping in the same bed. While it may seem harmless, adult beds aren’t designed for infant safety, and studies show bed sharing increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Soft mattresses, pillows, blankets, and gaps between the mattress and headboard can all contribute to this risk, prompting the AAP to strongly discourage the practice.
Despite the risks, bed sharing is on the rise. If you choose to share a bed with your baby, ensure the bed is away from walls, eliminate gaps between the mattress and headboard, and remove all pillows, blankets, and comforters to reduce hazards.
6: Encourage Your Toddler to Explore His Own Interests
While doodling with crayons might seem more fun than learning the alphabet, every child, like every artist, needs some direction—especially at home.
Your child’s curiosity might lead him to discover that the cat is soft or that Daddy’s shoes have a peculiar smell, but without supervision, he might also stumble upon something dangerous, like a wall socket.
Allow your child to explore and learn independently, but don’t hesitate to step in and guide him when the situation calls for it.
The Montessori method focuses on self-directed learning through exploration and curiosity. In Montessori schools, children are encouraged to pursue their interests and learn through hands-on activities rather than passive listening. There are over 5,000 Montessori schools in the U.S. and more than 17,000 globally.
5: Avoid Punishing Your Child
In an interview with Style magazine, Jada Pinkett Smith shared her and Will Smith’s approach to disciplining their kids, stating, "We don’t set rules. We create agreements." While their method works for managing bedtimes and curfews, most families (and their children) benefit from having clear, established rules.
No parent enjoys being the disciplinarian, and punishing a child is never pleasant. However, kids need to learn that actions have consequences, and sometimes discussions alone aren’t enough. Physical punishment isn’t necessary, and often a calm conversation can resolve issues. But to stop harmful or unacceptable behavior, stronger measures like revoking privileges or grounding may be required to make a lasting impression.
Empty threats undermine your authority. If you warn your child about going to bed without dinner, be ready to follow through. Consistency between words and actions is key to earning respect and credibility.
4: Why Hire a Babysitter When You Have a TV?
A TV cannot replace a babysitter.
Rob Melnychuk/Getty ImagesMany parents mistakenly believe that a television can serve as a substitute for a real, attentive caregiver.
When you consider the cost, it’s not entirely surprising. Television captivates young children, and paying for cable is far less expensive than hiring a babysitter to look after your child after school while you’re at work.
Even on a tight budget, there are better alternatives. Safe and affordable after-school programs are available in most areas. If you’re unsure where to begin, consult your child’s teacher or reach out to your local YMCA for recommendations.
3: Everything Your Child Does Is Perfect
In a world where participation trophies are common, it’s crucial for children to understand the value of striving for improvement. Shakespeare didn’t write "Romeo and Juliet" on his first attempt—mastery takes time and effort. Praising mediocre efforts can send the message that average is acceptable, which may hinder their ability to develop skills and talents.
This isn’t to say you should constantly criticize your child’s efforts. However, if your child is practicing writing but leaves out verbs, gently guide them on how action words can enhance their sentences. Fancy adjectives and adverbs can wait for another lesson.
2: Ensuring Your Child Gets Good Grades Is Your Responsibility
Your child’s academic success ultimately depends on them.
EIGHTFISH/Getty ImagesAs a parent, your role is to guide your child toward adulthood and help them become the best version of themselves. If your child excels academically and earns straight A’s, that’s fantastic, but grades aren’t the sole measure of success. Not every child is destined for the honor roll, and that’s perfectly fine. Each child has unique strengths, and while education is important, it shouldn’t overshadow the joys of childhood. Let your child enjoy their youth—studying can wait, but those carefree moments won’t last forever.
1: Let Him Rack Up College Expenses on Credit
While financial responsibility is important, relying on credit cards isn’t the solution—especially for funding your child’s college education.
Even as your child embarks on their college journey, they’re still young and inexperienced. Though they may be legally able to drive, vote, or enlist, they likely lack the maturity to manage credit card debt over four (or more) years of college. Unrestricted access to credit is rarely a wise choice for students, and no degree program will prepare them to handle the financial burden of accumulated debt.
Scholarships and student loans are far better options for covering expenses you can’t afford. If finances remain tight, attending a local university and living at home until graduation and employment are secured is a practical alternative. While it might seem daunting, it’s a far better scenario than your child still paying off college credit card debt when they start their own family.
