Lost socks-again?

Question

10 year old (not my son, but in my care)-repeatedly leaves things (socks, hats, gloves, etc) behind. I picked him up the other day and he didn't have socks. I asked him where they were and he had left them at his uncle's house. I told him that tomorrow he wouldn't be wearing socks. (My logic was that he would see how uncomfortable it is to not have socks on and that he would remember them from now on.)

Next day, his aunt screamed at me that I should take away a toy or video games, but that he NEEDS socks. I still believe the natural consequence made more sense, but want other opinions.

Answer 1

Tell his Aunt that unless she is willing to take on the responsibility of raising him then she has no input! The child does not NEED socks.

He NEEDS someone who loves him enough to teach him. To give him a home and to clothe him and feed him.

I don't disagree with you at all. I think you did the right thing. Haven't thought about that with my own children... but I could see myself doing it.

They leave theirs lying outside on the ground for the dogs to carry off.

Answer 2

Both of you are right. It is just a differing parenting decision.   His aunt needs to back off on her control issues. She or the uncle were the ones who let him leave without his socks, after all.

If it was a coat, that of course, is a different story.

Answer 3

Well, just as an example...my husband is the most dedicated, responsible person you will find.  When he was a kid, he used to leave his shoes at school or some place and his mom used to yell at him and all but look at him now.  I guess it is a phase he is going thru that he does not like socks.  Don't yell at him too much over it.  It is something so small that he should not feel guilty for at his age.  My 11 mo old daughter does not do anything like that so I don't know what to tell ya except just be patient with him.  Is it warm weather where you are?  Maybe his feet are hot with socks.

Maybe you can tell him that when he takes off his socks to plz put them in his shoes so that when he put his shoes on he won't forget his socks.

Answer 4

I think the natural made mor sense.

You cant see me but i just did the cuckoo sign abot the aunt.

as long as its not winter you really dont need socks.

Answer 5

id say he needs the socks its winter and very cold we dont punish children by letting them get colds

Answer 6

I think making him go without socks is good.

Answer 7

I recommend to you that you pick your battles. Find out what his favorite thing is or to do etc video games, treats, a particular toy and take it away from him for a day if he doesnt have socks on.

Answer 8

I agree with you - the natural cosequences of his actions would make more sense. But - pick your battles - it's probably not worth the fight.

I have trouble getting my 11 year old TO wear socks!!

Good luck!

Answer 9

tell her to make sure he brings them back from her house then. I agree - nobody died of having no socks on, but discomfort makes an impression.

In any case, who's raising this kid, you or her? Tell her to but out or make sure he comes back properly dressed.

Answer 10

Okay I do not think he NEEDS socks. If he forgets stuff send him back for it.

Answer 11

make him pay for his socks. see what that does...