I got a visit today and my own kids were playing in the backyard, fenced, they are 3, 6 and 8. She had a 12 months old girl and she asked me how I could let them play outside alone! Would I let HER 12 months old outside alone...

So I had to tell her, as politely as I could, that there is a significant difference between leaving a 3, 5 and 8 years old alone in a fenced backyard, all windows opened, and leaving a 12 months old! There is absolutely no comparison.

She started smiling again. But I had to be firm.

I suggest you tell this mom upfront that this make you feel bad, that you understand her concerns, but that she can thrust you.

Sarah