bothersome neighbor

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-07-2007
bothersome neighbor
6
Thu, 06-07-2007 - 2:54pm
I currently babysit my four year old neighbor. I watch her from 5:30 a.m. to usually 2:30 p.m. three days a week. The problem is that when her mother comes home the mother wants a playdate with her daughter and my 4 and 6 year olds. I am a person who finds it hard to say no because I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, so I usually will say yes to the playdate even though I just want some time alone with my kids. I have told the mother no a few times only to have her keep bothering me for another playdate again, sometimes that same day, just later on! The other problem I have with the mother is that she disciplines and yells at my kids right in front of me! I think I am a pretty good mom, but when I am around her I just want to scream! She is always talking about herself and her job, but never asks about my family or myself. I don't know what to do. My husband and I plan on living here for awhile and I don't think the mother plans on moving anytime soon. How do I make the best of this situation?
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-09-2006
Thu, 06-07-2007 - 7:37pm

I'm a little confussed. When she asks, and you decline, keep bothering you for a play date? You say "I'm sorry but today isn't good, maybe next time" and she says something other than "okay"?! How do you allow that??


How do you make the best of this situation. Well, that depends on what "best" is for you. Do you want to know what to do or say to her to get her to stop, yet have absolutely no negative consequence and have everything be all peachy? Never gonna

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iVillage Member
Registered: 01-18-2007
Thu, 06-07-2007 - 7:51pm

I don't think there's any easy way around this.

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iVillage Member
Registered: 06-07-2007
Thu, 06-07-2007 - 8:13pm
Thank you for your advice. Its nice to hear what others would do in my situation. I totally agree with you! Congrats on your baby! Cute kids!
iVillage Member
Registered: 01-18-2007
Thu, 06-07-2007 - 8:21pm

Thank you!


Good Luck with the neighbor!

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iVillage Member
Registered: 06-07-2007
Thu, 06-07-2007 - 8:25pm
Thanks for your comments. I have had several people tell me she's taking advantage of me too. I do not need to watch her daughter. I stay home to be with my kids and don't need the extra money. You definitely hit the nail on the head with the "free sitter service".
iVillage Member
Registered: 10-31-2006
Fri, 06-08-2007 - 7:39am

I totally agree with the others - she is taking advantage, asking for a playdate.

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