General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Adults that spoil kids aggravate me [View all]Lydia Leftcoast
(48,217 posts)I don't have kids, although I would have liked to, but in my now-long life, I've seen plenty of examples of both good and bad parenting.
During the time I was growing up, we spent a lot of time with our extended family (up to and including third cousins), and that included a lot of kids. Most of them were just fine. If Family A came over, no problem. If Family B came over, no problem.
However, if Family C came over, my brothers and I, who were kids ourselves would hide our favorite possessions so they'd be safe from the Little Weapons of Mass Destruction from Family C. Our dog was big and ornery enough to take care of himself, but we'd seen them pick up someone's cat by the tail and swing it around before the horrified owner intervened.
Mama C just sat and watched. Once she remarked, "I just want my children to have fun."
I have heard that remark from many bad parents over the years. Never from a good parent. They understand that their job is to enable their children's growth into being decent adults.
There are far more good parents than bad parents, and as for remarks about bratty children, well, if the shoe fits, wear it, and if not, the OP isn't talking about you.