My friend's kid is a terror
When it comes to the relationships in our lives, one of the hardest problems to deal with is that of a neighbor or good friend that we enjoy spending time with having a child that you just can't stand. Because parents and children come as a package, it is difficult to have a friend with a child that is a terror. You can't just tell them that they are invited but they should get a sitter. So, what can you do if your friend's child is a terror? Consider the following:
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1. Meet at neutral location. A child who seems to be trouble is always worse when it is your home that they are terrorizing. A kid who can't keep their hands off your things, or make lots of messes is going to make anyone frustrated. So, next time you want to get together with your friend, meet at the local McDonald's or Carl's Junior so that there is a playground for your child and theirs to play on. This way you can enjoy your conversation and the child can play, and you don't have to deal with the repercussions or fall out of their misbehavior. Parks, zoos, etc. are all great places for neutral ground hang outs.
2. Plan some kid free outings. If you have a friend whose kid is a terror, then you may need a few get together outings where you don't have to deal with them, they can be a real stress to your relationship. Three out of four hangouts can be with the child, but make sure that at least one of the four is you and them out having a great time. They will probably appreciate a few kid free outings as much as you will. Ask them to meet you when their kid will be at school, or someone else can tend them, etc.
3. Take advantage of the phone and internet to keep friendship alive. If you can't stand their kid, give yourself some time to let them grow up some. In the meantime, just keep the friendship alive by other means. Use the internet and texting and phone conversations to stay friends while their child gets under control. It may take a while, but if the friendship means enough to you, it will be a good option.
If your friend's kid is a terror, then you can avoid the friend and their child, or find ways to deal with their child. It is wise not to say anything to your friend, as most people are extremely sensitive where their children are concerned, and alluding to the fact that you don't particularly enjoy their child could do irreparable damage to the friendship. So, instead, be patient, and try to make the time you do spend with them and their child as pain-free as possible. If your friend asks you to tend them, come up with a reason you can't.
