elainefesseyagonyaunt@bellesprit.com. No problem is too big or too small and only a first name and location are required. Alternatively you may remain anonymous if preferred. Question: Dear Agony Aunt, I have been living with my parents for the past year since my marriage broke down. I have a three year old son who we all adore. My problem is this. Whenever my son is naughty, my mother tries to undermine my authority. She allows him to get away with all kinds of bad behaviour and when I intervene she tells him I don’t mean it. This is making me so frustrated, what can I do? Joanne, London UK. Dear Joanne, I am sorry to hear that your marriage has ended. Three generations of the same family living together takes a lot of patience and understanding. Your mum only has love for you and your son and has been as upset as you at the breakdown of your marriage. She does see your frustration at the way your marriage ended and feels that perhaps you could be taking this out a little on your son. You and he are very close and he often tunes in with your mood. Because he is so young, he doesn’t understand the feelings that swamp him, so he reacts by having some tantrums. When you tell him his behaviour is unacceptable mum can see where this behaviour is coming from and tries to protect him. These are early days as you cope with your feelings. In time, things will ease for you. Communicating with your parents about how you feel will definitely help. Why not take advantage of built in babysitters and have some down time with friends. Invite your parents to have a weekend away together while you watch the house. Your problem will resolve with time, patience and understanding. Much love to you and your lovely family. Agony Aunt ]]>