hello everyone! I have a predicament and I need some help. A group of homeschoolers get together for gym twice a week. We take turns planning the lessons and we go to the local YMCA. It is fun for the kids to run around with friends instead of each other. Anyway, one family has two boys that bicker and argue constantly. It is irritating and I do not want that attitude to be viewed as acceptable. However, the mom simply says stop or tells one of them to grow up. I want to say something but am not sure how to go about it. I feel comfortable enough to say something since we have talked about "deeper" subjects before. I just need help on how to go about bringing it up and then on what to say. Thank you for the help.
How long have you guys been meeting at the YMCA (how well do you know the other family)? Do you feel comfortable enough to try and divert these two boys from bickering and arguing and then maybe suggest to the parents that this has worked for you in other situations? Sometimes leading by example is stronger than words (and it might open up a conversation which would allow you to speak freely on how it affests you and your boys). <Just thinking aloud... hope it helps?
Maybe start a conversation about sibling rivalry/conflict with the Mom and point out your view on it diplomatically. I am sure she is aware of the situation and just maybe having a hard time controlling them. Boys can be that way more then girls when young. And sometimes Moms take so much they get worn out by all of it and tune it out. She has obviously seen and heard it enough to come up with the old stand bys. However she may also not feel comfortable disciplining her children in public. I know I rather wait until after an event (unless major) to discuss it with the kids.
