A few years ago, I started adding a little “disclaimer” to any invitations I sent out: “Our home houses kids and cats, please let me know if you are allergic to either.” This disclaimer was in response to a few grumbling people and an invitation I received to a barbecue that said “No dogs or children.” I was aggravated and offended, but I realized that there were plenty of people out there who didn’t like kids or animals (I am SO not one of them) and that it was only fair that everyone should know the score before they crossed the threshold…
Do we parents have an obligation to warn people of our household status before they come over? What if people are just stopping by to drop off papers from work or deliver an order? Do we need to make sure we disclose everything prior to an event, dinner, party, etc.? I found that I now like to get everything out in the open but I didn’t used to think it was necessary. I have always tried to prepare my children whenever we were either hosting or going someplace else—letting them know what they could expect and who was likely to be there, so it seems only fair that adults get the same sort of preparation. But am I part of the solution or part of the problem?
I did have someone once (and not so long ago) decline an invitation saying that it was likely to be “too noisy” at my house. After all, I don’t normally force all my children into the basement or make them stay away when I am having others open (I do give them options, however.) Where do you stand on warning and preparation? Do you let people know if they should expect chaos, family life, etc. when they come through your doors? Or do you just try NOT to invite those people who can’t hack a little living?
Also: Where Does “Social Life” Rank in Your Priorities?
Who Do I Parent? The Kids or the Kitten?
Balancing Seasonal Temperaments