We have a 5 year old boy. Typical in terms of his behaviour, likes to be busy, being kept entertained, loves being outdoors etc. In laws bought a tiny old cottage, not enough room to swing a cat. Tiny front room with valuables and fancy furniture. Tiny fancy garden with lovely flowers and intricate ornaments and fountains etc.. Whenever we go there my son wants to run around like kids do, rolls around on sofa etc. We tell him not to as it’s someone else’s house and I take toys with me etc as they have none and don’t make any effort to play with him. He gets bored, has a tantrum and I end up irritated and want to leave. Happens every single time we go so now we just avoid it! I can just see them glaring at him whenever he does what children do. Doesn’t help they have another grandson who is 7 and very quiet and chilled and will sit on his own and draw. Our son just doesn’t want to do that!
Is it a generational thing? My husband remembers going to his nans house and it was the same. Children should be seen not heard kind of vibe!
They have hardly any relationship with him and have never looked after him or spent much time with him so he’s quiet around them as I guess he doesn’t know them! I just feel annoyed that they don’t make any effort and also don’t seem to remember what 5 year olds are like!
Doesn’t help that my parents also make no effort with him or their other grandchildren! So I feel bereft!