Care and Feeding is Slate’s parenting advice column. Here’s what you need to know

Dear Content: My husband died suddenly nearly a decade ago and I feel no desire to date again.

My kids have decided that I need to start dating so I won’t be “alone,” going so far as to help set up an online dating profile for me.

I've been blandly repeating, “I’m not interested” and talking about the ways I love my life as it is. My son, especially, is unconvinced.

I feel sick at the invasion of my privacy, especially of my toddler’s privacy.

My husband has had a lifetime of dealing with his parents by being completely conflict-avoidant, so he won’t confront them and wants me to ignore it.

You’re the parent; you make the rules for your kid, even if they don't like it, it's OK to be clear about this boundary.

Has Tess's grandmother spent enough time with her to see and appreciate Tess herself? Can she share in some of Tess ’s interests and see her enjoying things she likes? Perhaps you two can help make that possible by including her in an activity or two .

I think your husband probably needs to be more direct and let his mother know.