Reply to help - how do to politely ease out of doing too much for other parents

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]OP here again.

I am talking about one family in particular. I generally have an issue about saying No to people, it stems from some dark experiences in my past, I won't go into detail, but basically I am sort of conditioned to please people or think something bad will happen to me or the people I love. I think some people sense my weakness and even though they see I too have a full time job and 3 kids - they still treat me like someone who has all the time in the world to spare and help out, when in fact we are juggling similar demands. It is something I am trying to address, but it is difficult - I can't quite shake this fear that I will set into motion something bad by saying no.[/quote]

First, I am sorry that you are having these feeling.  I would definitely 100% put a stop to people inviting their kids over for a sleepover.  If any of your kids are elementary or younger, it is TOO much.  Wayyy too much.  The kids don't sleep well and are a-holes the next day.  Literally just say that you can't it is too much.  All parents already know this.  We really restricted sleepovers when the kids were young because of how disruptive it was.  This doesn't need much explanation.

Beyond that I'd echo what everyone has said.  Say your work schedule is less flexible and with scheduling for three kids, you do not have the bandwidth.  This is literally true.  I am impressed you work FT and never need help with your kids.  We have some families where we would help each other out when the kids were younger.  It was mutual though and usually only when one family was in a tight circumstance.  Even then would have averaged out to less than once a month or so.

No is too abrupt, and making up an elaborate excuse gets too close too lying.  I think just making a factually true statement should be fine for your karma.  [/quote]

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