My daughter had a bunch of her friends over for a pool party and I was astonished at their behaviour. They were extremely messy, leaving food wrappers on the ground, crumbs everywhere and lots of overturned cups and melted ice cream. Later that evening I found a pair of socks, a T-shirt, a bathing suit, a towel and three hats left behind.
There were only 12 girls there! My older daughter and her friend were there lifeguarding, and I was there as an adult on site. I was quite surprised that some of the girls even left without saying goodbye and thank you. I’m obviously not going to say anything to the parents — no damage was done — but what do I say to my daughter? This is a good lesson for both your daughters: if your friends can’t treat your family and your home with respect then they aren’t welcome.
This same situation happened to a friend of mine and she told her children that for the rest of that summer, the pool was family and adult only. The kids were upset, and their friends were disappointed. But they heard her loud and clear.
It’s not difficult — you spill something, you clean it up. You say hello, thank you, and goodbye. You ask if you can help, you clean up, and you’re polite.
The ABC’s of being a good guest. These lessons will guide your daughters as they grow up and spend time at other people’s homes, cottages, and on vacation. Regarding the two people in the restaurant (May 24): “I just read your advice regarding two people overhearing a ma.
