Expert: Jay Remer - 10/27/2009

Question
Hi,   
We have a 12.5 yr. old daughter who is an only child.  We would like to know when we invite a friend of hers to a movie with our daughter - should we pay?  The thinking is... I feel we seem to invite more and do more for other kids than is ever reciprocated. In part because we're the ones w/ an only child. Our daughter seldom gets asked - and if she does I am more than happy to send her with more than enough money for herself. I just don't think other parents w/ 2-4 kids think to invite more kids to their things. Anyway - is it rude or wrong to expect that invited child to bring their own money for movie and ( expensive) movie snacks?
Thank you for any help!
Robin


Answer
Dear Robin,
Thanks for asking this good question. You are 100% correct. I can't imagine what these other parents are thinking. This is a perfect time to simply say that you cannot pay for their children, whether you can you can or not. It is simply not good form; it is presumptuous and the height of disrespect. Who knows, they may learn something and be grateful to you. I hope this helps. Jay