My 14 Year Old Cousin Asked Me Tongiht if She Could Bring Her Friend

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores the topic of whether a 14-year-old cousin should be allowed to bring a friend while babysitting a 2-year-old. Participants share their personal experiences and opinions regarding this situation, reflecting on their own childhoods and the dynamics of babysitting.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses discomfort with the idea, suggesting that a friend could distract the sitter from the child.
  • Another participant shares a negative personal experience from their youth, stating they would never hire a 14-year-old babysitter.
  • Conversely, one participant allows their sitters to bring friends, arguing that it can help alleviate boredom and fear during nighttime babysitting.
  • Another participant mentions their experience of bringing friends while babysitting, suggesting it can lead to more fun and attention for the child.
  • Some participants express concerns about the trustworthiness of the cousin's friend, indicating that personal feelings about the friend influence their decision.
  • One participant highlights the importance of following one's instincts as a parent when making this decision.
  • Several users mention the potential for increased chaos with multiple young sitters, especially with only one child to care for.
  • One participant humorously reflects on their past behavior as a teenager, acknowledging that they may have been a distraction while babysitting.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need to communicate with the cousin's parents regarding their views on the situation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ significantly among participants, with some advocating for allowing friends and others firmly opposing it. No clear consensus emerges on the appropriateness of the situation.

Contextual Notes

Participants draw from personal experiences and childhood memories, which shape their perspectives on babysitting dynamics and responsibilities.

Who May Find This Useful

Parents and caregivers within the consultant community who are navigating similar babysitting scenarios may find the shared experiences and viewpoints relevant.

S
SandiLeigh
Messages
82
My 14 year old cousin asked me tongiht if she could bring her friend over with her while babysitting my 2 year old on Saturday night.

I don't think this is okay, but just curious what everyone else thiks and if you have encountered this situation before?

Thanks
 
I have a 3 year old and if a sitter asked me if she could bring a friend, I would say no way! My ds is a handful enough and if the sitter was busy with her friend and not paying attention, well, let's just say the house would be destroyed. Go with your gut.
 
I know that when I was 14 and babysitting I brought friends so I could ignore the child. Hence the reason why I will never have a 14 yo watch my child!Say NO!!!
 
I let my sitter bring friends! If they aren't here with her she is on the phone with them, pick your poison! Plus maybe she gets bored or scared at your house at night.
 
I have a sitter who is afraid to be alone at night and I let her bring a friend too. I have a 1 and 2 year old so they split the money and the duties as well.
I check with the parents and have the girls parents check in on them as well.
I have never had a problem, but you have to go with what you feel comfortable with.
 
I started babysitting when I was 12 years old- granted that was 24 years ago, but I on occassion was able to bring a friend along, and we had more fun playing with the chilren together, and the child got more attention. I guess it depends on whether or not you believe your cousin does care for your child when she does come over to watch- if not, maybe a friend would be a distraction, or maybe once your munchkin goes to sleep she get's scared or lonely?

I was never on the phone! I did eat a lot of their food though! :)
 
For one child, I would probably say no. When I was in jr high a friend and I babysat together but it was for a family with 4 children.
I would think with one child and 2 babysitters, the babysitters would be a lot more occupied with entertaining each other rather than the child.
 
Okay, so maybe I was the really bad kid back then!:o :o
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
I am having a hard time with it. My gut is telling me no. Mostly because I hear stuff about this girl that I don't entirely like, and I am not 100% happy with her even being my cousin's friend. However, that is neither here nor there.

I guess it comes down to what I feel is best for my son and at this time if I am not comfortable with it I probably wont' enjoy my night out with my husband.

I sometimes forget that I am 16 years older than these girls and I am a mother and its okay for me to set the rules for my own family. Its funny even when I am at the mall those teenagers intimidate me, especially when they are in packs.
 
SandiLeigh said:
I am having a hard time with it. My gut is telling me no. Mostly because I hear stuff about this girl that I don't entirely like, and I am not 100% happy with her even being my cousin's friend. However, that is neither here nor there.

I guess it comes down to what I feel is best for my son and at this time if I am not comfortable with it I probably wont' enjoy my night out with my husband.

I sometimes forget that I am 16 years older than these girls and I am a mother and its okay for me to set the rules for my own family. Its funny even when I am at the mall those teenagers intimidate me, especially when they are in packs.
Click to expand...

I totally agree with you!!! For me it's because I was that A**hole teenager at the mall intimidating people. :( :(

I think you have to go with your gut feeling on this one! :)
 
If you do let the friend come make sure to hide the booze and prescription drugs!
Not saying your cuz in particular does this stuff, but you see crazy things on the news about what teenagers are up to!
 
SandiLeigh said:
I am having a hard time with it. My gut is telling me no. Mostly because I hear stuff about this girl that I don't entirely like, and I am not 100% happy with her even being my cousin's friend. However, that is neither here nor there.
I guess it comes down to what I feel is best for my son and at this time if I am not comfortable with it I probably wont' enjoy my night out with my husband.

I sometimes forget that I am 16 years older than these girls and I am a mother and its okay for me to set the rules for my own family. Its funny even when I am at the mall those teenagers intimidate me, especially when they are in packs.
Click to expand...
That makes things different! If the friend can't be trusted as much as the sitter, no way!
 
Gotta go with your gut. You are the mom and you set the rules - if your cousin doesn't like it you can find someone else. And if you don't trust the friend that should be a big red flag. She's 14 - she is just testing the waters if you say no she will likely be fine with it. I would ask why she wants her to come - if she is scared after dark you'll need to address that.
 
Well I have two children 2 and 4yo and I always let my sitters bring a friend. My kids are very active and wouldn't let the sitters goof off. I only pay the official sitter tho!

I live in a small community so I guess I would never think of some of the sinerios (sp) that were listed above, WOW!

Since it's your cousin what does her parents say.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my cousin bring her friend to the Pampered Chef party?

Yes, your cousin can definitely bring her friend to the Pampered Chef party! It's a great opportunity for them to enjoy the event together and learn about the products.

Is there an age limit for guests at a Pampered Chef party?

There is no strict age limit for guests at a Pampered Chef party. However, it's always a good idea to check with the host to ensure that the environment is suitable for younger attendees.

Will my cousin's friend need to purchase anything at the party?

No, your cousin's friend is not required to make a purchase at the party. Guests are welcome to attend, enjoy the food and demonstrations, and decide if they want to buy anything later.

What if my cousin's friend has dietary restrictions?

If your cousin's friend has dietary restrictions, it's important to inform the host ahead of time. The host can then prepare or provide alternative options to accommodate any dietary needs.

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Yes, your cousin and her friend can participate in the cooking demonstrations if the host allows it. It's a fun way for them to engage with the products and learn new cooking techniques!

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