my 12year old has received 52 texts from the same kid wanting to hang out

[Anonymous]

He has texted back various excuses over the weeks and when that didn't work he gave a blunt "no thanks" but it continues. He thought the kid was Ok last year and hung out with him a little, but they didn't click much. He feels stalked and isn't interested now and it's making him really uncomfortable. He is now asking me for advice and I basically think he has done everything he should. I have read the texts and I think he handled it well. What would y'all suggest?

[Anonymous]

I would tread gently, as the other child obviously has some social skills issues.

[Anonymous]

Do they go to the same school? School counselors can be very helpful in managing situations like this.

[Anonymous]

Just continue to avoid. Welcome to real life.

[Anonymous]

He needs to tell the other kid not to text him so much. It's probably a child with Asperger's or social-communication issues, so it's wise to be tolerant and kind.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Do they go to the same school? School counselors can be very helpful in managing situations like this.

Yes, same school. I hate to involve the school counselor in something that isn't bullying. Plus, I mentioned it to my son and he was mortified. He does not want to have to talk it out. He just wants to be left alone.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I would tread gently, as the other child obviously has some social skills issues.

OP here. I figured that and neither I nor my son want to upset this kid, but he has a right to say "no."

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I would tread gently, as the other child obviously has some social skills issues.

OP here. I figured that and neither I nor my son want to upset this kid, but he has a right to say "no."

That’s fair. I really would talk to the guidance counselor. She might be able to set up a lunch bunch and help the other kid make more friends. ( or learn social skills). It’s not gossiping—it’s getting him help. Neither kid ever needs to know you made the call.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I would tread gently, as the other child obviously has some social skills issues.

OP here. I figured that and neither I nor my son want to upset this kid, but he has a right to say "no."

OP again. Wanted to add my other child has some SS issues which is why we delayed giving a phone. We monitor for our 12 year old and he ever sent 52 texts I would be on him for it.

[Anonymous]

After 52 declines - I think he could also stop replying - ghosting can be cruel but not sure there are any other options

[Anonymous]

Can’t he just block the number?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I would tread gently, as the other child obviously has some social skills issues.

OP here. I figured that and neither I nor my son want to upset this kid, but he has a right to say "no."

That’s fair. I really would talk to the guidance counselor. She might be able to set up a lunch bunch and help the other kid make more friends. ( or learn social skills). It’s not gossiping—it’s getting him help. Neither kid ever needs to know you made the call.

Good point! Will do-thanks!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:After 52 declines - I think he could also stop replying - ghosting can be cruel but not sure there are any other options

He tries ghosting and the texts keep coming so he responds now and then.

[Anonymous]

Block the phone number from the phone and be done with it. How is this even a discussion?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Block the phone number from the phone and be done with it. How is this even a discussion?

It's a flip phone and I don't think it has "block" on it, though i could be wrong.