Neighbors, what to do?

[Dreyadin]

You have every right to say no- it's a liability issue you are not comfortable with taking. If something happens on your property- you're on the hook. You have a toddler and many pets- your hands are full- that is understandable. Special needs or not- they are strangers and you are not comfortable with this- as is your right as a Mom of a little toddler.

Yeah.. when you have a special needs kid in the family, depending on the severity- trying to find something for them to do and keep engaged is always at the top of the list. However- there are options that don't include your neighbors. The Mom can go through the local school and as well other sources to find available activities, programs, social events, and even work opportunities. Through these networks as well it makes it easier to connect with families that also have a child with similar needs.

She can also get her son his own pet(s)- like we did for my little sister.

 

[cafarmgirl]

Do not feel guilty for just saying no. You have observed that this boy was rough with the dog, he was also rough with you and his mother did nothing about it. It does seem she is not afraid to ask for what she wants and seems to expect a lot from her neighbors. Also, her idea that your very small son would be a good play date companion for her much older and larger son shows a complete lack of judgment on her part. Or denial about what her son is and is not capable of, I don't know. Regardless, your first responsibility is to your family and your animals. If the situation is uncomfortable in any way for you then you have already answered your own question.

 

[Carols Clucks]

First, I hope you have a good fence and some locks for your gates! If not, might be a wonderful thing to invest in.

Second, Your own family is #1, don't let some one guilt you in to putting your family 2nd.

Any mom who would fail to realize that a teenage son, even with a mental handicap, is not a good playmate for a toddler is not one you need to have as a friend or visitor.


You can always tell her that you have to keep non family members out of the yard because of Bio-Security needs of your flock. (but if you don't have a fence and a locked gate, bet they have already been in your yard.)


This weekend we were selling some fruit for 2 hours, had a lady ask our "hours" for the next week because she was going to bring her pre-school group over for a visit. Hello, this is our back yard not a park! And we do keep our gates locked. Some people just have no clue

 

[Mattemma]

Secure your home and yard against trespass.I would tell the mom,"I appreciate your interest,but it is nothing something I want to do." Unless you agree to something she will be upset.It is not as if you want to be friends.Turn her down and hopefully she will not become a nfh.