Local friends in the holidays....

[McDreamy]

......how do you manage them?

My garden is full of children - I don't know all of them well although I do know they all live locally.

I'm not sure why they all seem to come over here, I'm sure it's my DCs "recruiting". They are all playing happily, my DCs in particular, they have never had so many friends locally but I'm sure not all their parents know where they are. (Although could make a fairly good guess) They are aged from 4 - 7. (Excluding DD2 who is 1 and loving having all these big children to play with).

Just dawned on me......am I responsible for all these children? What if someone hurt themselves. Do you allow lots of children in your garden to play? It's lovely but it's got me thinking........

Off to make a large jug of squash!

don't feed them - they'll keep coming back - it's like rats

when you've had enough go out and send them home "Right you lot time to go now"

speak to children and say if you are playing in somebody else's house I want to know where you are before you go

I also wouldn't give em squash - if they're thirsty go home (at least then they're checking in with own parents)

Good point!

My children know (I hope) they are not allowed in anyone elses house/garden/anywhere I can't see them and so far so good.

Might be building up to the "right you lot scarper" point activate

look them in the eye, say it loud and confidently and brook no nay-sayers

I personally would feel very uncomfortable about having a lot of children at my house that young and not knowing if their parents even knew they were there. Also what are children aged 4-7 doing there without they're parents at least dropping them off and checking its ok with you?? Are you sure your not having your good nature taken advantage of? If something was to happen who would you contact too?

I don't think I've been any help just raised more questions sorry

This is my worry tbh. I wouldn't be happy if I didn't know where my children were.

I love that the DCs have children to play with locally but I am worried about something happening/someone getting hurt.

We all live in the same street but we haven't been here long so don't know too many people - getting to know them fast now

They are drawn to your garden cos no one else is as welcoming I reckon

Ok all is calm now!

Apparently their parents did know where they were - they asked if they could play here just didn't ask me first

I'm meeting the neighbours!

Aw compo - I'd love to think that's true

I had a kiddie from over the road to play the other day. I stayed in the garden with DS and the little girl and they really enjoyed themselves.
It was a hassle, though, as I couldn't let the dogs out.
The half hour was enough time for me

Just an after thought, but if your new to the area and don't know that many people maybe invite a parent along too next time, at least you'll have company and someone else to share the responsibility with too!