Tutors - would you take back a client that left ?

[wherehaveallthegoodfolkgone]

I teach small group classes, have done so for years until a few of my own clients decided to do the same thing and my numbers nosedived. One child that I was teaching was really thriving, a pleasure to teach. His mother just abruptly pulled him out one day and has now returned, 7 months later asking if he can rejoin.
I feel uncomfortable but am unsure what to do. It's clear that she tried elsewhere, and under normal circumstances I would be glad she returned - but the competitors were slanderous and it was a hurtful , complicated experience overall that left me reeling for a long time.
I feel safer with the students and clients that are not affiliated with that school/group of parents.
Having said that , numbers in this particular group are low so I could do with another addition.
What would you do?

If the child was difficult or you didnt need the business then I wouldn't bother but as you want the space filled I think worth a try.

Presumably mother prefers your tutoring so not likely to be involved in any slander with the other tutors?

What's the mother like? Was it just your competitors who were unpleasant, or was she unpleasant too? Does she have links with them in some way?

I'd tread very carefully with this one. Is there a way of having a conversation to see if you can all be on the same page?

The mother was very nice at the beginning but suddenly soured which other parents from the same school group did too - leaving me with no other conclusion than slander was being used.
The fact that other parents from other schools are perfectly fine and happy, makes me want to stay away. I think I'm answering my own question 😄