Adult Supervision

Maybe I am over protective, but I think it is wise to always have an eye on your children, especially when they are 6, 4 and 1.  For some reason, others think it is quite ok to leave a 6 year old on the playground by herself.  Just this morning on our return from the bread store a man dismounted his bike and wanted to take pictures of my kids.  When I told him they didn't really like that he seemed ok and proceeded to shake my hand.  He was very excited about us foreigners, a little too excited.  People often grab them, touch their faces, stroke their hair and want to take photos.  I know this is because they are a rare breed with their golden locks and blue eyes, but as a mother I have to protect my kids.  There are plenty of crazy people around, and you don't always know just by looking who the next crazy will be.  We are always polite and I emphasize that to the kids, to be kind even when you are uncomfortable.  But I have also told my children they are not aloud to be outside without an adult whom I know and trust.  Today, Ayi decided to leave Grace and her son, 4, on the playground to come back up to the 9th floor and retrieve Lola.  I was so antsy that I got into the elevator without putting on any shoes and went down to get her.  I am continuously reminded that I have to teach Grace, Lola and Peter to obey Mom and Dad and not do what someone else may think is ok.  Love my kids, love our Ayi.... but whoo - I did not like my Grace being left outside without adult supervision.