How to tell dad...?

Question

That I'm not going to use the crib I used unless he lets me check the slats width apart. How can i say it nicely, I checked the standards and this crib was made before 84 so I'm sure there some ailments but he insistent that it's fine because he put 4 kids in it...I'mgoing over there tonight and i want to check it, thelast time he wouldn't let me check it... Ridiculous huh? LOL

Answer 1

So if he won't let ya-don't use it. He should understand that safety standards and awareness have changed since we were little ones. And that's a good thing. He should have his grandchild best interests at heart and should NOT be offended.

Answer 2

Blame it off on hormones, make it a joke. Just tell him you can't help worrying about all sorts or weirdness now. Say something like, "Boy, I tell you, these hormones are making me a little crazy. Everything seems so unsafe that I have to double check everything! Have you ever noticed how fast people walk down the street and how close they come to bumping into each other, I keep feeling like they will knock me down. I've measured my car 6 times to make sure that the carseat will fit right. I brought my tape measure so I can just double check that crib, anything to keep my sanity, besides, then I'll know how long the crib bumper needs to be. Would you help me measure it Dad?" Then you are kinda giving him a mission, and he will understand the hormone thing. Have him show you how it goes together and have him help you check that all the screws are tight etc. Men do better with stuff if they can hold, touch or move something, enlisting his help will help him feel like he is doing something for you instead of like you don't want his crib. I would wager that he wants you to use the crib because he wants you to save money but mostly because he wants to help. Good luck, and if the crib doesn't measure up, have him come help you pick one out, include him and I bet you will face less resistance.

Answer 3

I would print up the new safety standards and show him. There is no need to be super nice about it. I would say, "Dad, I appreciate you offering the crib, but given the new safety standards, I want to make sure it's safe. If you won't let me test it, that's okay. I'll just buy a new crib!"

Answer 4

If he wont let you check it out then tell him you cant use it because you want what is safe for you child. I know he might think it is safe but just explain to him that times change and the safety of cribs change as well. If he still doesn't go for it show him the safety requirements for cribs these days..maybe those will change his mind.

Answer 5

I would just simply tell him that this is your child. Although you are touched that he saved your crib and wants to give it you for your child, you want something newer and something that has not been in storage for x amount of years. Something in being in storage can sometimes ruin it, especially if moisture go in to where it was being stored. I would also maybe print off some statistics and what not about the crib you want to buy and show him why it would be better for your child.

Answer 6

Find stories of babies who have died from cribs with too wide of spaces between slats. Share them with your father to show him that you aren't just being picky but that you are being responsible.