Advice Needed on How to Handle Houseguests and Babies! - Page 2

[lab]

Originally Posted by Jane91

My husband wanted them to visit the first month the babies were born! That idea was truly crazy.

We have another seven days together. Although we are getting together with another older set of cousins for two days later in the week which I am hoping will reduce the appeal of handling the babies.

I know my husband would not be comfortable asking them to leave. Clearly we need to draw a harder line -- I feel like I'm not advocating well for my kids out of a fear of upsetting the apple cart and I'm kicking myself for it.

You're going to have to seriously hurt their feelings.....

[lonegirl]

Originally Posted by Jane91

Clearly our error as hosts was (as I have been informed by the 10 yo) not to purchase a Wii before their arrival!

LOL this is something my son might comment on (3.5y) and something if the family were the type to enjoy such a thing that my hubby would run out and buy for them. My son would comment out of innocence in thinking that everyone has game systems of some sort (we have an xbox 36o, a Wii, DS, Itouches..you name it)...it is just what he is used to. Hubby would do it out of generosity...

By the way I think it sounds like you are doing a great job!! I rember when my son was about 6wks that hubby decided to invite all our friends over for a get together for me.....After about an hour or so I couldn't handle it anymore and went up to be with my little ds with the excuse of "he needs to be nursed". I think hubbies do irrational things while thinking it is the greatest idea...out of love. lol

[shanniesue2]

Originally Posted by GuildJenn

You could even tell them "I love you, but I feel like I am going to KILL YOU if you do it again. Of course I won't, but you have to stop NOW." Assuming that you have a solid enough relationship that they'll get it. I've been that direct with my one nephew who needs directness, and we still have a great time together.

Even with a solid relationship, this is something I would NEVER EVER EVER say to a child. There is too much opportunity for there to be a misunderstanding about what was said, and the next thing you know, Auntie is ending up with a restraining order or charges filed against her or something.

Now I have told children that what they are doing is driving me crazy. But there isn't any way that that statement could be misconstrued or misheard as a threat against the child's life.

[GuildJenn]

Originally Posted by shanniesue2

Even with a solid relationship, this is something I would NEVER EVER EVER say to a child. There is too much opportunity for there to be a misunderstanding about what was said, and the next thing you know, Auntie is ending up with a restraining order or charges filed against her or something.

Now I have told children that what they are doing is driving me crazy. But there isn't any way that that statement could be misconstrued or misheard as a threat against the child's life.

Ehn. I can see your point (sort of, although I don't relate-by-fear-of-bizarre-court-orders) but my point really was if you're feeling that way - express it. It doesn't have to be in those words, but it's not a terrible thing for kids to know.

Obviously you have to know your family, the children involved, etc. But in ours getting that melodramatic would help get the point across in a way that would add humour and playfulness. Being all silently upset about it without addressing it would be much more damaging.

A lot depends on tone, I think. You could always turn it around and say "if I have to tell you one more time to stop touching the baby I think I will run screaming around the house one million times."

We're also big Robert Munsch fans so what can I say.