to stop myself from offering a potentially tiny helpful suggestion to harrassed-looking mum on the bus today?

[Mintyy]

because you lot have forever put me off that kind of thing for fear of being told I am an interfering old bat?

Seriously, a few years ago I would have spoken up. Today (because of Mumsnet and the outrage I have seen towards strangers saying anything whatsoever about your baby) I kept quiet.

Feel a bit at self, tbh.

I think I would of gone down the strike up a conversation route. She's got a good set of lungs on her! Is she teething? You must be worn out etc.

A bit of getting the mother onside with flattery and how well she's coping followed by mentioning the sun and asking if she wanted her turned round.

Some people crush you when your child is misbehaving. We tried introducing DS to church. He wasn't impressed. The women sat a few rows in front turned, tutted and moved away. I felt like crap. However a lady afterwards said these things happen, it'll get easier and sod them. Lifted me a little. Never been back though.