Eternal Moments: A Real Mom's Question

I recently got a question from a mom who was in a bit of a pickle. (You may have had a similar sticky situation.)

You know the issue...two different parenting styles that crash head-on into each other.

Here's the dilemma...

The mom was going to be entertaining company for the weekend. All four parents had agreed to have the kiddos keep the devices off. (A bold move in today's media driven culture.)

Then... you guessed it... the guest parent couldn't take the heat. She changed her mind when her child complained.

So awkward. Don't you hate it when stuff like that happens?

The scene could be played out one of these three ways--and all of the options have a downside.

1. Give the WiFi code to the guest but then the hosts' kids feel like it's unfair.

2. Change the rules to fit the guest for all the kids.

3. Don't give out the WiFi code.

No matter which option you go with, someone is defiantly going to be unhappy.

The old school version of this problem is, "Can we watch TV when we have company?"

The hostess and her husband chose option number three. No WiFi for anyone.

So the question is, how can option number three be presented in the most diplomatic, palatable, non-pickle juice spilling way?

I suggested they focus on the relationship rather than the no to the WiFi rule.

"We are going to be having so much fun being together and playing family games that there isn't room for the internet.We are so happy you are here!"

Then...quickly (faster than a speeding bullet or a dripping pickle )involve the kids in a game or planning the evening activities.

The key is to involve the kids immediately. Distract them from the no and engage them in good old fashioned family-friend fun time.

Present your plan in a positive, friendly way.

Hopefully once the fun begins, it won't be a problem.

How would you handle a similar situation? I would love to hear.

And...I would love to hear how this weekend panned out. If I find out, I'll share it with you!

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23