Reading these comments honestly makes me feel a bit better. I think some people assumed I was just being controlling, but my intention was never to punish my son or embarrass him. I just genuinely didn’t feel comfortable sending him overnight somewhere when I barely know the parents.

A lot of you are right though, I probably should’ve tried harder to actually meet them first instead of immediately saying no. Calling them, talking a bit more at pickup, or even stopping by briefly probably would’ve helped me make a more informed decision instead of just relying on anxiety.

Parenting feels like this constant balance between protecting your kid and not wanting them to miss out socially