How can I keep kids from coming over and "playing" in our yard? We're in our 30s and not a fan of kids.

Question

As the new, "younger" people on the block, kids love us. Their parents seem to like the freedom that comes with us basically baby-sitting. Saying "we can't play" and "please stay out of our yard when we're not home" isn't working. Hiding in the house results in numerous phone calls from the kids. We are trapped inside unless we want to be followed all day. It's not like they don't have their own friends. It may sound harsh, but we have a lot of fixing up to do. We also like to have fun (with adults) drinking and playing horseshoes, but we can't even have company over without constantly being bothered. Any advice?

There is already a fence around the entire property.

Answer 1

I would suggest putting up a fence. One where they can't even see that your outside. If they come knocking ask them what they want, give them an answer, then tell them to go play. That's not being mean, and after awhile they'll get bored with it and find somewhere else to play. What strikes me as strange is them calling you... either change your number or get caller id, lol. Anyways, I don't think they are purposely trying to get on your nerves. Your new in the neighborhood, obviously you made a good impression... they think your cool. Try to be patient with them, but let them know the party's over!!

Answer 2

Well, sounds like you might be getting guilted into baby-sitting. I'm assuming that you are friends with some of the parents. It is certainly not out-of-line or rude to discuss the problem with the parents and ask that the kids at minimum call and make sure it's okay before coming over.

Since you already have a fence on the property, it sounds like the parents might be favoring not only the 'free' baby-sitting, but also the security of the kids not 'running off'. Like one other suggested, explain to the parents that your 'baby-sitting' services are not going to be free. And stand firm when it comes to your own social life. It is your home, and you should feel comfortable to have guests over whenever you like.

The last option, and I mean LAST option, is simple:
BIG DOG, BIG CHAIN.

Just kidding. Or am I...

Answer 3

I feel for you... my bf and I do not have children for a reason (because we don't want them) but the kids in our neighborhood take it upon themselves to come over into our yard and such. Uhg! So annoying.

I say, go buy a fence, and make sure it goes around your entire property, and buy a lock for it so you can lock up when you are not around. maybe you can try talking to their parents and tell them that you have a lot of things to do and to do them, you need to be child-free. Then tell them, you don't want the children to get hurt while you are fixing up your place and will be too busy to supervise, that way it seems like you are alone out of caring for their well being rather than being mean.

Answer 4

When they would congregate in my last yard, I'd find a reason to "test" the sprinkler system. That was always fun, especially in colder months. You can always throw firecrackers and/or horseshoes at them. But apparently the little darlings are under the mistaken impression that you liked them. Other options include using a blower to stir up leaves and make noise, testing out the "new" paintball gun (oops, sorry kids), playing outdated music on your patio speakers, and calling the PoPo to get those little trespassers arrested.

Of course, getting all kissy face and tonsil hockey with your spouse may gross them out; or if one or both of you are horrifically fat, you could lay out in a speedo. When they run away yelling "My eyes, My eyes" you'll know it worked.

Answer 5

I had a similar problem and I put up a chin link fence with a lock on the gate and now I only let in who I want. The kids next store always want to come over and I just say no. I have even yelled at them several times to GO AWAY. You may have to yell and be firm but it will work.

Answer 6

You need to talk to their parents and tell them that this has become a problem. Tell them you don't feel comfortable having their kids over in your yard without supervision and that you would rather your yard be off limits when you are not at home, and for the times you are entertaining and have guests over tell them it's not an appropriate time for their kids to come and play.

Answer 7

You could sit in a rocking chair on your front porch with a shotgun full of rock salt. When the kids come around start babbling to yourself making outrageous claims.

Answer 8

Secretly break something and make a huge stink about it. Ask around like your trying to get to the bottom of it. Then make statements to the parents that now you can't be having kids around anymore.

Say it's your Grandma's ashes. hehe

Answer 9

Put up a fence or start charging these parents for the "free" babysitting.

Answer 10

those toddlers are all sufficiently old to comprehend extra constructive. you are able to post an illustration asserting no trespassing. additionally consult from their mothers and fathers returned and tell them you do no longer choose their toddlers yet returned, devoid of your permission. in the event that they come again over, flow forward and get in touch with the police officers, enable the mothers and fathers comprehend this can be the next flow. as quickly as the mothers and fathers comprehend your severe, perchance they'll advance into in touch of their toddlers lives and do whats actual. i think of its so rude of toddlers, surprisingly older ones to no longer know different peoples belongings. i think of it in basic terms shows the mothers and fathers undesirable parenting skills in the event that they dont take care of their toddlers and coach them actual from incorrect.