Get off my lawn!

Social dilemma. So we have some kids in the neighborhood that just roam around all day. Their parents kick them out of the house so they roam around looking for kids to play with. Parents are never around looking for 'em or checking to make sure they're OK; some as young as 5. For instance, one evening both parents were each in separate cars driving around looking for their kid as they had no idea where he was; just to put into context.

So last night me and the fam were in the backyard on father's day playing cornhole and having a good time. One of these kids sees/heears us and jumps the fence into our yard to play. Being a nice guy that I am (contrary to what @Almaboy says), I didn't say anything and let the kids toss the bags a few times. But being fathers' day, I just wanted to play with my kids; just us the family.

So the question is, it is rude/mean to tell a kid to go away as we are having family time? Or should I be nice and let the kid(s) join as it's not their fault that their parents don't participate with them and just let them roam the streets unsupervised for someone else to entertain? I wanted to tell him to go away, but don't want to become the old guy that tells kids to get off his lawn.

What to do next time . . .

 

Tell them to kick rocks with tact. Quality time with your family far outweighs any responsibility you have to entertain those kids and do what their parents should be doing.

 

I would try to instill some good in their life. Teach them discipline, but don't scare them off. If a parent doesn't want to take part in their kids that is their choice, but if you can keep a kid from becoming a problem for society later on that would be a huge plus!

In the exact situation you had - if it is family time, I would let him know you are having family time, but let him know he would be welcome another time.

 

Make it a electric fence he won't jump over it again... Honestly if it were me let him play and interact its probably not the kids fault his parents aren't playing a role in their life, and if it got to a point where you wanted to enjoy a meal or something with your kids and family then let him know its that time and he should head home.

 

My thoughts exactly, which is why I let him play last night. But a little annoyed cause he took play time away from my kids.

 

The first part of what Eric said is basically what I think. We have some kid s in our neighborhood the same and I firmly believe that these kids greatly need positivity and good role models in their lives. It's too easy for kids to be sucked into bad behavior. If you don't act they might not have anyone else who will. Just a few weeks ago I caught some 8 year olds in a neighbor s shed smoking dope and let me tell you I put the fear of prison in them.

 

@ej63090 and @drhntr hit the nail on the head.

Obviously these kids need a role model and guidance in their lives. I wouldn't chase them off, but invite them in while drawing clear boundaries. Once it's time to go, it's time to go. Otherwise, come on in!

 

Think about the impression you will have on your own kids by doing the right thing. Kids are probably looking for attention since their parents don't give a crap. Someday your kids will be greatfull for you being in their life.

 

remember when leaving your house at dusk and coming home at dawn and your parents had no clue where you were was totally normal????



I'd be positive to the kids like everyone else said, show a good model for your own children.

 

Make them part of your family. You'll get to make an impact on their lives. Best part is, you dont have to buy them clothes and food haha. Show them some love, EVERY kid deserves it.

 

Man....if there is ever a time in our country children need a positive role model it's now..for times such as these. I think you did the right thing, maybe his Dad or Mom are just not "around" or are slugs. Not knowing all the details I say you set a good example for your family Jose. I could not just run a young child out of my yard..nope just not wired that way. FWIW..

 

You did the right thing even if they were cutting in to family time.

Just think...their father was probably not as invested in his kids as you are so being someone else's kids father on father's day is not a bad thing. It's just inconveniencing at times.

Selflessness is never easy...especially when it's annoying as hell or those you're contributing to aren't appreciative!! Take that from someone that gets it

 

I'd prolly let them play, and then at the opportune time I would gently ferret out who owns him. I would then talk to the parents and tell them I didn't appreciate their kids jumping over the fence uninvited.

Point, being, it isn't the kid's fault his parents don't understand the concept of discipline and the teaching of manners. What if you had a dog back there who ate any child that wasn't a member of his pack?

 

Then on the other hand....

 

Yep, I remember those days. And for the most part, my hood is still sorta like that. But I still like to keep an eye on my kids and know where they are.

 

^^^ exactly why I let him stay.

 

ice cold PBR.

 

I had a neighbor like that Mr. Stewart old WWII VET bomber pilot I was young and dumb he took me under his wing at a critical time..I was always grateful even 30 years later. Rest in Peace Mr Stewart.

 

Muy bien José!
You did good. Like everyone said it's not kids fault. I seen a few occasions when I was little where kids come over to play and parents seem not to care about where they where. And like your situation they just show up at our house while it was only family time. But my dad didn't mind, my mom would even ask them if they ate yet and give them food, mind you I have 4 brothers and two sisters, and my mom didn't mind feeding other kids, now I look back at it and I'm glad I had parents that care.
So I'm sure your kids will see that your a good man and father.

 

This may help you.

 

It's a gun! ah!
Someone get me to my safe space. Stat!
LOL. I think a .22 pistol will do.

 

We talking 3 foot fence or 6 foot fence?

 

Agree w other members
I know it takes a big heart and if you can, be nice to them and let 'em play as long as they behave and don't ruin it for your kids. At the same time, be an asshole to their parents as they know how to pop a kid out but don't want to take the responsibility of raising one.

 

3

 

Good point about the dog...then you get sued by the parents !!!!

 

Nah. Not in me to be an a-hole. I have no right to tell others how to raise their kids as long as kids are not being abused mentally/physically. To each their own.

 

Not if you have signs that say "beware of dog"

 

If this is a constant thing that 5yr olds are out roaming the streets its time someone called the police or discreetly call CPS. kids that age should not be left unsupervised especially outside, even if they are inside you have to constantly check on them. You don't have to call 911, but I think if you expressed your thoughts to your local police they would appreciate it and ask them to keep it anonymous.

 

I don't know anymore these days......No one seems to be safe...even when posting warning signs on your own property ....WE LIVE IN A DIFFERENT DAY AND AGE ....GUESS IM GETTING OLD ...SAFE SPACES....POLITICALLY CORRECT....GOOD GOD !!!!!

 

In the old days they would sterilize those people.. Just saying.