I'm still working on that one MON, and my personal favorite "Oh I could never do that to MY kid", said with the implication that their child could easily DO the above level work, but they, as wise and rational parents decided not to [insert whatever line you hear the most] to their child.
Sometimes a compliment to the other person's child will help. 'You child is so good at setting up challenges for himeslf, that was harder from my son to do in his old classroom.'
or make a joke -
'Well, at least when DS12 is with the older kids, I don't have to worry about him telling them where babies come from or about Santa. It's such a relief.'
or philosophy -
'I'm sure you are correct, I think that deep inside we each know what is best for our own child, don't you? Isn't it beautiful how individual they each are.....' ((cue New Age Music))
The trick is to assume that the other parent is NOT out to get you, and if you have evidence to the contrary, why are you talking to them in the first place?
Of course, you could always raise one eyebrow and say: 'I bet you could, if you had to.' and act all mysterious before you change the subject.
Or - revert to athority 'The principle (judge, police chief, minister, psychologist, learning specialist) said this was for the best.' with a little tilt of your head and wide open eyes.
My favorite - 'I really wanted him to have the same chance as everyone else to learn how to learn, ya'know?'
Smiles,
Girnity
