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Social quandary: Family get-togethers make my kids uncomfortable

My in-laws berate my kids about their careers, driving them to avoid family functions. Should I speak up and risk a rift?
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Have you found yourself in an awkward situation? Has someone irked you and you’re not sure how best to proceed? If so, you’re not alone! Every week, we feature a reader-submitted quandary so that you can weigh in with your best advice. What would you do in their situation? If you’d like to submit your own quandary, click here.

My sister-in-laws are all 'tiger moms'— mothers who are overly strict with their children in order to foster academically competitive spirits. My parenting skills are at the opposite end of this spectrum and my children, while not academic overachievers are well adjusted responsible adults. When we attend family get-togethers, my sister-in-laws literally swarm my children and grill them about their studies and careers. My children have grown tired of it and avoid family functions. I try my best to foster familial relations but my in-laws’ behaviour is getting out of control. Should I confront all of them and risk a rift, or just keep continue making up excuses when my children refuse to come?

Please comment below and help this reader with your feedback. Check our Facebook page this weekend to view more reader comments!

Read our previous social quandaries here.

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