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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

WWYD child unattended (6)

303 replies

SL472947 · 23/04/2023 09:42

I don't know what to do.

My DD6 has informed me that her dad (who she sees every other weekend) has let her go into a home bargains by herself while he waits outside with his dog.

He says that he has done it twice as it's teaching her self confidence and she can listen.

Personally I wouldn't allow her to do that alone as she is only 6. I can't explain to him that it isn't a safe thing to do as he wouldn't take anything I say onboard.

WWYD?

OP posts:
Itsnotclean · 23/04/2023 09:51

If he’s outside the store what do you think is going to happen?

Itsnotclean · 23/04/2023 09:52

Presumably she’s just buying sweets or whatever?

HeidiIou · 23/04/2023 09:52

You are overreacting, he's her Dad and he's outside

LeroyJenkinssss · 23/04/2023 09:55

It’s not like he’s sent her off to the shops on her Todd, he’s outside waiting and watching. He’s not wrong - he is teaching her responsibility.

it may not be what you would do, but it’s not inherently and absolutely unsafe.

TeaKitten · 23/04/2023 09:56

Hes outside, there’s nothing wrong with this.

eish · 23/04/2023 09:57

I thought you meant left her and went out. I think what he’s doing is ok, he’s outside so she can’t leave the store and she knows where he is.

LaMaG · 23/04/2023 09:57

Sorry OP but I agree with above, I don't think he is wrong.

PonyPatter44 · 23/04/2023 09:59

It's probably the safest way to start teaching a bit of independence. Noone could get her out of the shop without him seeing. I imagine she isn't idly roaming the cleaning product aisle, she's gone in, chosen and paid for her own sweets and come back out again.

I understand your worries, but I was smothered and over-protected as a child and it did me no good at all. I am sure your DD will be fine.

HippeePrincess · 23/04/2023 09:59

This is absolutely fine, he probably realised your dd is mollycoddled by you and is trying to teach her some life skills and independence.

Tealsofa · 23/04/2023 10:01

I think this is OK as well

Happybakers · 23/04/2023 10:02

I think that’s fine! If he’s outside she can’t go anywhere!

HaudYerWheeshtYaWeeBellend · 23/04/2023 10:04

Can you articulate why you find it irresponsible?

Personally I don’t see an issue with this and agree he’s teaching her some responsibility and life skills.

CurlewKate · 23/04/2023 10:04

Seems fine to me.

SoupDragon · 23/04/2023 10:06

I think letting her go in whilst he is outside is OK. Obviously the other way round would be a complete no!

Favouritefruits · 23/04/2023 10:08

I don’t see the issue, I think it’s fine.

Lovebeingamummy2 · 23/04/2023 10:09

See I'm going against the grain here I agree with the OP I don't think this ok at all she's ONLY 6! I would be fuming if this was my child x

TeaKitten · 23/04/2023 10:09

Lovebeingamummy2 · 23/04/2023 10:09

See I'm going against the grain here I agree with the OP I don't think this ok at all she's ONLY 6! I would be fuming if this was my child x

Why though? What’s the risk?

SiouxsieSiouxStiletto · 23/04/2023 10:10

The title is a bit dramatic. He's not left her to go clubbing. He's helping her learn vital skills in a safe and controlled way.

BlessedBeTheFruitCake · 23/04/2023 10:11

If he’s outside waiting I wouldn’t have an issue with this.

MrsBennetsPoorNerves · 23/04/2023 10:13

If he is waiting outside, I can't see the problem. I'm assuming that there is only one exit?

What are you worried might happen?

Fandabedodgy · 23/04/2023 10:13

It's a different parenting decision. That's all.

Mariposista · 23/04/2023 10:13

This smacks of you trying to find fault with the other parent.

Thoughtful2355 · 23/04/2023 10:14

Nah i wouldnt have an issue with this, i would let a 6 year old go into a shop alone as long as i was outside it and could see the door. not under 6 though but i think 6 is a good age and definitely good to learn.

BooksAndHooks · 23/04/2023 10:14

I think this is fine. Teaches them a little independence and confidence. Mine loved being able to pay themselves in shops at that age.

Lkgcsr · 23/04/2023 10:15

I don’t think I’d do it but I’m not sure what you think might happen if he’s outside?