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In reply to the discussion: Adults that spoil kids aggravate me [View all]FloridaJudy
(9,465 posts)That if you prefer your gatherings be child-free that you not hold them on Christmas day? For one thing, it's damned near impossible to find a sitter then, unless the parent is willing to shell out the equivalent of the GNP of a developing nation. One of the pair - if the parent is fortunate enough not to be divorced, widowed or single - is going to forced to stay home. Or else it's drag the little darlings with them or leave them home alone.
And, as any experienced nurse or teacher - let alone parent! - can tell you, even the most angelic of children is unlikely to be on his or her best behavior then. Chances are the youngsters are running on minimal sleep: they've stayed awake late listening for reindeer hoof-steps, and awakened before dawn. They've also stuffed themselves silly on weird food like candy canes and chocolate Santas, not to mention the green-bean casserole they had to finish before being allowed the candy canes, so they're likely to hurl all over someone's shoes. They've been as good as they possibly can for at least a week, in hopes that they'll get the must-have gift that's been heavily advertised. If they got it, then they'd much rather be home playing with it. If not, they'd rather be home either sulking or hiding their disappointment.
The result is something of a minor melt-down, in which they're likely to be either whiny and/or hyper. Most parents would much rather ride it out at home, where they can put the child down for a nap, or send him or her to the bedroom for a time out.
To their credit, not one child I have ever entertained has gotten drunk and taken a swing at my boss, or poured a pitcher of sangria over the head of a visiting professor. I cannot say the same of some adults.
So if you want a grown-ups only party, make it earlier in the week. Or do what a couple I know do, and hold a post-Christmas bash some evening and make clear it's just for adults.
I would never have taken my child to your house. I had too much respect for him to subject him to your disdain.