by Maria Correa

So, you're not a top chef. But that doesn't mean you can’t add a special twist to a classic recipe when it calls for it. A writer for The Sydney Morning Herald implies that the same kind of thinking should be applied to parenting.

In a recent article,  PANK (Professional Aunt No Kids) and comedian, Kitty Flanagan, explains that she is single and childless ("it just didn't happen") and because of  that, she feels she must always "keep mum" when it comes her opinion on children and/or how parents are with their children. But Kitty wants to change that. "I think it's time childless people were allowed to offer an opinion on modern-day parenting,” Kitty argues.

We asked the Savvy Auntie #Auntourage on Facebook if they agree with Kitty.

Susan Moreland shares: "...I find it best to keep any advice that I have to myself when it comes to parenting since I don't have children myself. I would only offer advice if asked or if I thought a child was in some kind of danger or at risk of harm if I didn't say anything.” But Jasmine McRae argues: “We should have a say when we are babysitting. I don't keep mum. If they don't like what I say I don't have to babysit..." Pauline Brannigan adds, " ...You don't have to say you're doing it wrong... But why don't I go give it a try to get her to sleep, take the medicine, eat the veggies, take a bath? You give the parent a break! ... Most will thank you afterwards and you build a bond with the kid.”

Parents may want to keep in mind an aunt’s good intentions to provide some help. But a Savvy Auntie always remembers the #2 Principle: The Auntie Is Not the Parent.

Photo: Serge Bertasius Photography
Published: January 14, 2015