Is it weird that my son doesn't have a single book or toy from MIL -- but she has a stocked nursery at her home with said items?

Give It To Me Straight

My son is almost 10 months old. Typical annoying, frustrating history with my MIL since his birth (first grandchild). The usual that you see described here often: pushy, manipulative, baby was supposed to be her do-over, her expectations don't match the reality, etc. She started "nesting" when I was pregnant, continues to buy various baby furniture / gear for their home. My in-laws are well-off, but some items were 100% waste -- like newborn clothes she held hostage for awhile in hopes to use at her home (because apparently it was expected I'd leave my baby off frequently on mat leave..). I make suggestions or give guidance on purchases; it's usually ignored or she's just "excited." While I believe some of it has good intentions -- generally it's undertones she expects to strong-arm her way into overinvolved, co-parent role (obsessed with idea of being primary, full-time childcare since birth). I suspect she equates more stuff = must feel obligated to more grandparent involvement. No thanks. Not how it works. I can smell it 1000 miles away now.. the guilt attempts.. "but we have things here that don't get used enough" etc. It's never enough. Short of raising my son for me, it will never be enough. So I am not playing that game. Any involvement is a privilege.

Personally, I find it bizarre she's never in my son's 10 months of life bought him a single book or toy, to enjoy in his own home.. (other than a small, duplicate crinkle book ignoring my Christmas list for him). Our part-time nanny just bought a fun baby book for him to enjoy & learn. She's known him 2 months. I haven't ventured upstairs at their home in several months to see "his room" as I know it'll make me hurl from all the nesting going down. Give it to me straight.. Is this weird? Am I overreacting? Anyone else have similar experience?

Posted Apr 28, 2026, 7:03 PM UTC · locked

18581
Loading comments…