Dear At the Fence:

My x husband lets his girlfriend watch my kids at restaurants in town while they are not there.  I do not feel this is safe. The one watching my kids is 13 and my kids are 6 and 9.  I called my state child protective services and they told me this is ok as long as nothing has happened to them.  Why does something have to happen before they can help me?  I do not feel it is right that a child should be hurt before you can get help for them.  I am scared someone will take them or hurt them without anyone seeing this.  What can I do?  I cannot afford to go back to court.  I am scared for my kids.

Worried Mom

Dear Worried Mom:

I'm assuming the 13 year old is not your child, but the girlfriend's?

Laws vary from state to state. I can only guess that it is not against the law in your state for a thirteen year old to babysit. So, unless something happens, the law can do nothing.

It may be that the best you can do is instruct your kids on how to call for help if they feel they are in danger. Give them each a quarter and show them how to call 911. Talk to them about not going places with strangers, not taking food or drink from strangers and not talking to strangers about where they live, what their names are, etc. You might want to have them call you regularly when they are in the care of the 13 year old.  If your husband won't allow this, you may have to resort to going to court even if you have to borrow money to pay for it.

Best Wishes

 

 

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Disclaimer:

The contents of these pages represent my personal opinions, which are offered for entertainment and educational purposes, only. I am not a psychologist or therapist. My professional background has been as an educator dealing with personal growth issues, parenting skills and relationship problems. My hope is that this information will be helpful to you, but please, use common sense and thoughtful consideration before acting on any of the information you find here.