WWYD? Pull DD from class since I dislike the owner?

[HonoluluMom]

DD is currently enrolled in a Gymboree-type class. She really enjoys going there. However, I dislike the owner. She is extremely pushy (pushing members to upgrade, renew membership, etc.), doesn't seem to care about the children (doesn't know my daughter's name even though we've been members for over a year), and bends the rules for her favorites. She does have a good staff.

This past weekend, the owner's attitude really ticked me off. I saw her berate a parent in front of a number of other parents and children. After the ugly incident, I essentially decided not to renew my membership. However at DD's recent 2 year check-up, the pediatrician said it's good for DD to have a chance to interact with children her own age.

The only other feasible option is enrolling DD in Gymboree, which is more expensive, not as convenient, and not as large or nice a facility.

DD is also taking a Mommy and Me type swim class. However, there isn't very much opportunity for DD to interact with the other kids.

Should I just suck it up, renew my membership and stick it out until DD enters preschool? WWYD?

[Meatball Mommie]

Tough call... Do you know other moms well enough to start a spin-off playgroup? When my oldest was around 1-1/2, a group of 9 or so moms agreed to meet once a week at someone's house. The host changed every week and because there were so many of us, we didn't need to host often (plus hosting only consisted of putting out kid snacks and maybe some sort of treat for the moms ). Not everyone attending every week either, so it wasn't overwhelming for the kids either.

[TwinFoxes]

If the choice is that class or nothing, I'd suck it up UNLESS the owner's attitude affected DD. I think this is first in a line of people you won't like but have to put up with for DD. I think it's one of those parental PITB we'll all have to deal with.

[chlobo]

I wouldn't do it if its going to piss you off every time you go there. Your daughter is only 2. There will be many years ahead of you where you will have to put up with people you don't like for her.

[SnuggleBuggles]

I'd find somewhere else. It doesn't have to be a gymnastics style thing- just go to story time or something and hang out at the livrary.

Beth

[kedss]

if she enjoys the gymnastics and she isn't affected, I'd probably suck it up. but, if it's a huge issue for you, I'd try looking for other options for socializing.

[sunshine873]

Originally Posted by SnuggleBuggles

I'd find somewhere else. It doesn't have to be a gymnastics style thing- just go to story time or something and hang out at the livrary.

Beth

She's running a business & if you're unhappy with her then you're not obligated to give her money. There are other options for your DD to interact with kids. Check with your library or bookstores for story time (they almost all have them.) Find a playground you like & your DD can interact with other kids there. Also, get on meetup.com & look for moms groups or playgroups in your area.

[MommyofAmaya]

I would be in a crappy mood if I disliked her that much and wouldn't be much fun. I would look elsewhere for other opportunities for socialization.

[waitingforgrace]

Originally Posted by sunshine873

She's running a business & if you're unhappy with her then you're not obligated to give her money. There are other options for your DD to interact with kids. Check with your library or bookstores for story time (they almost all have them.) Find a playground you like & your DD can interact with other kids there. Also, get on meetup.com & look for moms groups or playgroups in your area.

I definitely wouldn't keep going. sure it may not have been you or DD that was berated this time but what about next, I wouldn't risk something else happening.

[div_0305]

I'd flat out tell the owner what you find offensive about her business style and tell her you will leave the facility if she continues it because it affects your peace of mind there. I can't stand pushy business people, but I've found that pushing right back at them (verbally of course!) puts them in their place and they leave me alone. Best to nip it in the bud when someone like that approaches you.