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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Making 14 yr old go on a family trip

180 replies

bridgetjonesmassivepants · 01/09/2021 16:15

I think I am right in doing this but here goes...

14 year old, his 12 yr old sister and me, all going to a nearish town to do lots of activities. Staying overnight so a day and half in total. Doing climbing, laser quest, fun fair, swim centre etc - lots of fun stuff. Having dinner out. Last blow out before they return to school next week.

14 yr old doesn't want to go, wants to stay at home and get his Grandad to come over and look after him (would be by himself for over 12 hours otherwise) says he hates busy places as there are too many people. (Not Covid related - just doesn't like crowds).

My view is that it is a day and a half, there are lots of fun activities that he will enjoy, even if he doesn't it is not a long period of time. He should also be grateful that he is given the opportunity to do so much stuff!

Yes - he should go and try to enjoy it.
No - I am being unnecessarily cruel in forcing him to do something he doesn't want to do.

OP posts:
Sh05 · 03/09/2021 15:08

I'm glad you took him, I'd have done the same. Ds usually says he'd rather stay at home but enjoys himself once he's out of his room!

ProfessorSillyStuff · 03/09/2021 21:03

Lol at imagining your later quest victory dance OP!
I feel like these memories of time together will be treasured in years to come.

Oceanbliss · 03/09/2021 23:47

@bridgetjonesmassivepants Glad you all went and had a great time. You sound like an awesome mum Smile

lemonsaretheonlyfruit · 04/09/2021 15:21

Great. Sounds similar to my experience a few weeks ago. Def worth pushing them! Glad it went well.

likeafishneedsabike · 04/09/2021 21:10

Great news.
Some people just love to moan about going places but enjoy it when they get there. It’s not just teenagers! I had a friend in my 20s and for a couple of years we went to an exercise class every Wednesday night. Every single Wednesday she tried to cry off. Every single Wednesday I put my foot down and she always thanked me after (in the pub Grin) for making her go. It’s just how some people are!
So good on you for trusting your instincts with your DS.

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