Appropriate consequences

[Curiouscucumber]

Just discovered that DS age 11 and his friend were ringing a neighbours doorbell and running away. He doesn't know I know yet but will talk to him in the morning. I don't know the neighbour if that makes any difference so they could be elderly or a family. It was early evening and light as not allowed out late anyway. Not that it makes a difference. What would a suitable consequence be?

I think grounding would make sense - not letting him out with this friend he’s been running around with especially. He’s abused the privilege of being allowed out so makes sense to take that away for a short time.

I would take him to their door so that he can apologise. I would then enforce certain restrictions for a week, such as no gaming, no going out with friends, etc.

It's called Knock down ginger - classic kids game
Do you have to talk to him if so why does there have to be a consequence. He's going to do stupid stuff over the next few years - choose your battles

We made my son and his mate go down, knock the door and apologise.

I'd take him around there to apologise & offer to clean their car/mow their lawn/sweep the drive (something that sounds less 1950's 🤣)

he'd be 'staying in/not playing out'

& I'd ring the other kids parents.

but it's a pretty normal childish prank, it's not like he's killed the neighbours kitten or anything.

I would make him go and apologise, game or no game. It's fucking annoying having someone's brat think it's funny to constantly ring your doorbell. I wouldn't do anything beyond that though.

Thank you for your thoughts. Apology is definitely going to happen.