f/u-not sure what to do, need advice

mlc92404

I went back and read everything and I can understand why you ladies got the impression that you did.  It's not at all about keeping points or anything like that.  I will be honest, I am a little apprehensive because I have no clue what to do with a 9 year old girl.  I'm the type of person who, when I have guests, I want to make sure to keep them entertained and not bored.  We have worked SO hard with DS #1's sleep habits that I am concerned to mess them up because last time they got messed up it seriously took a month or more to get him back on schedule.  I know I may have sounded like I was making a million excuses but I just want this to be an easy/fun time on everyone.  I stress easily and like to have things planned out and organized to avoid as much stress as possible.

That said, I told DH's cousin that we would be happy to have her.  We dont have a lot of extra room but we can make it work (I'm not sure how yet but we will make it work!). 

I'm not doing this because I feel I have to or I should.  I'm doing it because, like someone pointed out, its family!  I just needed to take a step back, and realize that this could be a fun experience for DS and his cousin.   Now.......if any of you can give suggestions to entertain a 9 year old girl and a 3 year old boy when it will still be too cold to be outside much.  Oh yeah, there will be a 6.5 month old baby too in a 1250 sq ft house (two big dogs and a cat too)

ridesbuttons

I grew up in a house smaller than that and more crowed.  It'll be fine and fun.

9 year old girls are a dream.  They want to help, have things to do, contribute and act grown up.  Giving her tasks (like helping with some of the meal prep) will work well.  Making up games for you 3 year old and being 'in charge' of him will keep them both entertained.

Dance party, dress up, hide 'n seek, make no-bake cookies (3 year old can help too), play 'mad scientist'....use your imagination.

My guess is that she will fit in well and actually make your days easier because she is likely to help out more than you think.  She'll take some of the pressure off you, rather than put more on.

DandelionMom

9 year old girls are easy-peasy! I'm sure her mom will send her with some novels and some electronic entertainment. She'll probably want to help with the little kids, will want to help cook, will enjoy crafts (especially jewlery making so pick up some beads and string if you want!), will love playing on your computer (ask mom about sites she's allowed on). Also it is fun to play with nail polish and make up if her mom allows it. 

acppa

If you're in need of an activity you could do some fun kitchen things.  I made butter with my niece who's 9.  She liked it a lot.  

You take heavy cream and a pinch of salt.  Put it in a jar with a tight lid and shake shake shake.  Eventually (about 5 mins) there will be a big clump of butter in the jar (along with some buttermilk).  We made muffins and put our butter on them.  The 3 and 9 yo could take turns shaking the jar.