Dear Ariella B.,

I am not sure what to do. My parents get together with their friends a lot. The friends have two adorable little kids. The kids worship me, which is sweet. They want to be wherever I am. Unfortunately, I don’t always want to be exactly where they are. Sometimes their parents get involved and say, “Please play with them for a little bit. You’re such a help and they like you so much.” How can I not play with them so much without causing hysterics and then feeling bad myself?

Sincerely,
No Babysitting Nina

Dear No Babysitting Nina,

I think you shouldn’t be forced to babysit … I mean play with people you don’t want to. You shouldn’t feel guilty because it’s totally normal that you don’t want to play with people all the time; it’s human nature, especially when they are so much younger than you. Maybe you could ask your parents if you can ask for some payment for watching the little children. Then it won’t feel so annoying. But it might be a good thing if it’s a boring Sunday to play with them. If playing with them is worse than being bored, though, maybe invite friends over so you won’t have to play with the cute little kids all by yourself.

Hope this helps.

Until next week,

Ariella B.

Ariella is an elementary student who wants to help you with your problems. She can be reached with your questions at [email protected]