So how do people with kids in co-ops, condos and rentals co-exist with those without children, who don't appreciate the noise generated by the pitter patter of little feet, especially in public spaces?
A post on Park Slope Parents brought this vexing issue to light. One mom has resolved the problem she had with her neighbors by deciding to "discontinue hallway play." She even had a revelation:
They brought our playtime noise to our attention in such an awful way that our shock at their behavior overshadowed the fact that we were actually being really inconsiderate in the hallway.
After a few days, the smoke cleared, and we realized what had to be
done. We actually feel rather stupid not seeing it before now! Our
neighbors say they've been giving us hints for a YEAR. Unfortunately,
those "hints" were just mean looks. It's just sad that 2 months ago
they came to my son's b-day party, and now I'm not sure we'll exchange
6 words in 2009.
done. We actually feel rather stupid not seeing it before now! Our
neighbors say they've been giving us hints for a YEAR. Unfortunately,
those "hints" were just mean looks. It's just sad that 2 months ago
they came to my son's b-day party, and now I'm not sure we'll exchange
6 words in 2009.
So I guess it's about communication. It sounds like the angry neighbors should have brought up the matter earlier. Guess what? The complaing couple is pregnant. The PSP member wonders:
Perhaps that will change things in a year or two, but for now, we'll have fun on the 5th floor where short play times are encouraged. I'm also going to try to get a playroom in the
building, since it looks like it could help everyone out – not just the families, but the neighbors as well!
building, since it looks like it could help everyone out – not just the families, but the neighbors as well!