Old man on playground who doesn't appear to be dropping off/picking up children-what would you do?

[Ineedsomesleep]

DH came home from the school run yesterday and asked if I'd ever seen an oldish man on the playground with a stick, then he asked if I'd ever seen him drop anybody off or pick them up. I haven't.

Last year he used to stand in the street outside school, but I used to assume he was waiting for the bus. I just hadn't clicked that he was standing where all the children have to walk past him in the school grounds. Some of the mums are friendly with him, so I don't want to upset anyone.

What would you do?

I wouldn't be surprised if he was someone who lived locally and was out watching to see if children stood in his garden, or played with his flowers or something like that. We have a couple who hover at school time.

My dad collects my Ds's 1 day a week for me. He always goes right at the last minute for this reason (so he can't be accused of loitering) - it's all very sad. Watching children run and play is one of the best things in the world. Why would anyone want to deny an old man that?

perhaps he used to teach there?

Is he actually in the playground? If he is, then why not hang around this afternoon - take a bun for your child and sit on the wall to eat is and see what he does. He will be picking up grandchildren, I am practically certain, bt it will put your mind at rest. If he's not in the playground he's got a perfect right to stand wherever he wants to - it's nobody's business but his own.

I bet he's collecting grandchildren or possibly just loves watching the children's free spiritedness and innocence. Whenever I go past the local school playground, it's an absolute joy to see them all playing their games and the noise of children is just fantastic. It has come to a very sad time in our world.

I agree that it is lovely to see children, be near children and generally enjoy their company. Especially, as you say, when you walk "past" the local school yard. Standing in it is a different matter. I wouldn't just walk into a school ground if I didn't have business their, and neither should anyone else.

Didn't have time to ask at the office today, will have to be later this week now.