tiredmommy
Well-Known Member
Her daughter is Duckie's age (they're in the same class) and the girls had their first one-on-one play date today. They have been in the same circle of friends but never have played just the two of them. The mom, J, has a difficult child on her hands. The problem is that she is really just figuring that out and I can see she is scared. This difficult child has had problems with others but J knows that we've had our share of problems with Duckie and aren't quick to judge and aren't surprised by more difficult kids.
The girls decided they would play here so that it could be one-on-one without the girl's younger sister. I put that idea in Duckie's head because I thought the girl might do better without the pressure of multiple kids. J seemed so nervous and kept stressing to call her with any problems but they were fine. The girl's manners are a little lacking (in that she dropped candy wrappers on the floor and left them there) and she seems a little immature for her age, but they played nicely together. We kept it low key, went over our few rules and left them alone. I thought J was going cry from relief when she picked her up. J invited Duckie to her house next time.
Poor J, I remember clearly feeling so unsettled by Duckie's actions. Being afraid she would never fit in or make friends. Would she be okay in school or in other people's home? What should I do to make things better? Was it me? I'm torn as to how much support or insight to offer... I don't want to make her defensive or embarrassed.
Please keep a good thought for J and her family.
The girls decided they would play here so that it could be one-on-one without the girl's younger sister. I put that idea in Duckie's head because I thought the girl might do better without the pressure of multiple kids. J seemed so nervous and kept stressing to call her with any problems but they were fine. The girl's manners are a little lacking (in that she dropped candy wrappers on the floor and left them there) and she seems a little immature for her age, but they played nicely together. We kept it low key, went over our few rules and left them alone. I thought J was going cry from relief when she picked her up. J invited Duckie to her house next time.
Poor J, I remember clearly feeling so unsettled by Duckie's actions. Being afraid she would never fit in or make friends. Would she be okay in school or in other people's home? What should I do to make things better? Was it me? I'm torn as to how much support or insight to offer... I don't want to make her defensive or embarrassed.
Please keep a good thought for J and her family.