Rules

[Gemini]

Yes, Nana, parenting styles, plus different personalities. GD would still be a good girl if brought up by DD1, as it is her character. She would probably not be as well behaved though!
GS1 would be far better behaved if brought up by DD2, but would still be stubborn, determined and a bit manipulative, I'm sure.

[Daisy]

Qwerty, that's lovely, at least you can take them out with confidence.

My GS could not be talked to more, the world revolves around him! He has 100% attention from parents, especially mum. He goes to no regular after school care, so is with one or other parent or me once he comes out of school. He is very intelligent which is part of the problem, but not an excuse!

My GD is impeccably behaved and always has been, we could take her anywhere from babyhood, and have. This reflects badly on GS1, as I hardly ever take him anywhere. I am used to well behaved children (My DDs and GD) and I can't guarantee how he will behave if things don't go his way, which puts me of taking him anywhere!

Gem - it's very complicated, I think. Yes, parenting styles have a bearing on how a child behaves, but there is also the child's developing personality at play. I know it's a completely different situation, but taking our GS1 anywhere, even at nearly 15, is a lottery. He can be a perfect angel, sensible, mature, funny, polite and co-operative. Or not!! What you do know is when he's not happy he's not going to keep quiet about it! So taking him anywhere always requires preparation and planning - and things can still go badly wrong. I've learnt over the years not to worry too much about other people staring, muttering or offering 'advice'. But it's never relaxing!!!

I'm sure as your GS1 gets a bit older he will take things in his stride more.

[Gemini]

I agree Daisy, things are so much better than a couple of years ago.

[Daisy]

Gem - and I'm sure it will continue to get better. Your poor DD3 must feel run ragged at times though.

It's interesting that children will behave differently with different people. My DD2 often wants to take her shoes off in the car. No idea why, but I always say 'no', and she always says 'but my other Grandma lets me'! I still say no! I'm sure there are things children do without question at school (like hang their coats up) which they don't do at home.