On Friday we invited the next-door neighbour's kids (X, a boy aged 11, and 2 girls 7 and 5) to watch fireworks with DD (4) and DS (9).
We only moved in a couple of months ago and DS sometimes plays with the 2 younger kids. We don't know X so well but he's the kind of kid who always says hello and seems friendly enough.
After a few fireworks it started raining so all the kids came in for ice cream, juice etc. Then off they went home--a happy time was had by all.
On Saturday I couldn't find the mobile I use for the charity I volunteer for anywhere. I was puzzled as had definitely used it on Friday afternoon. Looked under sofa, in laundry basket, everywhere.
Suddenly about an hour ago there was a knock at the door. Neighbour's big brother Y, aged 16, said, did (DH) give X a mobile today?
'Was it a Blackberry?' I asked in surprise. X denied everything but then started spinning a yarn about his friend (not DH) giving him a mobile phone.
I explained that it was not my personal phone but one used by a charity that helps children with disabilities. I said if I didn't get it back within 24 hours I would have to talk to the police.
10 minutes later, back comes the mobile--minus its SIM card.
Luckily T-mobile say it has not been used but I (and/or the charity) must pay a £10 fee for a new SIM.
Family next door don't seem at all well off, mum is often out or away and doesn't speak good English, and X is too young for a Saturday job.
How can I best play it so that X learns a lesson and doesn't nick my stuff again--but still maintain friendly relations with the neighbours?