JAC

We have a similar woe as well! He started playing with older kids and new kids at school. I am wondering where he picked up some of the words and how to handle some discussions around them. So solidarity!

In our family, certain family members struggle health wise and really aren’t able to keep up with my rambunctious little guy. In that case, the TV is on more than I would normally allow during their visits. We also try to do board games or other more stationary activities, but it is difficult with the limited attention span of a toddler. Are there any activities that you can send with your child that might help? Or get them tickets to a museum, zoo, activity center to use during your trip to help limit the screentime?

The two parts that would make me nervous is the not taking them to school part and the don’t tell mom and dad. Where we live there are only a certain number of days that kids can miss without getting in trouble at school. Not sure if that is a thing where you are, but maybe you can bring that to the table as an extra reason why your child has to be at school. She could always claim they were sick, but at least here, you would need a doctor’s note to miss that much school.

The don’t tell mom and dad can easily go from a wink and an extra cookie to something more serious. Maybe discuss this issue with your child to ensure they know the rules about not keeping things from you.

Good luck! As someone with no local options and limited childcare in general, I feel your pain. We are supposed to go to a wedding soon where children are invited. I would love to have a night out with my spouse, but also thinking about the childcare situation makes me think it would be easier to just bring him.

I am so thankful for your comment. I have a new three year old and we are struggling right now. We will get there!