Monday, October 3, 2011

Random Parenting Tip: What To Do When Naughty Older Children Are At The Park

Good morning Parenting Enthusiasts!


This gem comes from a fellow ECFE mom I was lucky enough to befriend outside of class.


Have you ever been at the park with your smalls, only to be driven off by the unwanted actions of older, unaccompanied kids? We've all been there. You schlep your brood and all their accouterments to the park, only to find the top of the slide occupied by 14 year olds, trying out all the salty language you know (hope) they don't get to use at home and generally not behaving in a manner befitting your young audience. What to do?


As I will mention over and over again, you have OPTIONS


First, you could turn around, pack up your stuff and (by now), screaming kids, and leave. Not an attractive idea as you will no doubt have mutiny among your ranks. Next please.


Second, you could politely and firmly request they refrain from such behavior and hope that they stop. Be prepared for some kind of confrontation though, it's not unheard of and can sometimes turn ugly. Not the win-win option for me.


Third, you can call 911. A bit of an over-reaction really, if all they are doing it loitering and talking snappy. If they are engaging in dangerous or illegal behavior, though, get outta there and call 911 from the car. No kidding.


Since chances are the kids are just being a bit like, well, teens, so I'm going with option four to solve this dilemma, which is thus:


Go up to the group, as cheerful and upbeat as can be and...wait for it.... TALK TO THEM! Ask them about the day they're having. Smile and compliment them on their shoes. Be nice, be sincere and be respectful. Engage them in conversation. If you do this, one of two things is usually going to happen. Either they will 1) respond in kind and generally clean up their behavior; or 2) they'll split. Regardless, your problem is solved. No harm, no foul. Win-Win!


I have employed this technique at least two times now and both times the kids changed up into decent kids again. No awkwardness, no hard feelings. Sure, it was a bit uncomfortable for me the first time, and yet, the results were so amazing, it was worth it! Honestly, give this a try.


Simple Genius! Thanks Michele!


Happy Parenting!

No comments:

Post a Comment