BETRAYED BY MY PAL OVER KIDS’ PARTY

Dear Coleen

I’ve fallen out with a good friend over something that probably sounds trivial and silly compared to the problems you usually receive.

My four-year-old daughter is terrified of balloons, yet a really good friend of mine insisted on having them at her daughter’s birthday party, so my little girl couldn’t go.

I even offered to buy some alternative decorations, but she said she didn’t want to spoil things for her daughter, who wanted balloons.

I know she thinks I’m ridiculous because it’s got back to me through a couple of other mums. Should I confront her? I’m hurt that she’s saying things behind my back, as well as the fact she wouldn’t compromise over the party.

Coleen says

Yes, if want to keep the friendship, then explain how you feel. Say that while you accept it sounds ridiculous, the fact is your daughter is literally terrified.

Also mention that you didn’t want your daughter screaming and spoiling the party, even though she wanted to go.

Believe it or not, kids having a phobia of balloons is actually pretty common – my sons were terrified and would cry if they saw balloons – it’s usually to do with the fear of them popping and making a loud bang. But they did grow out of it and I’m sure your daughter will, too.

You would hope a good friend would understand and stick some bunting up instead, and explained to her child she’d have balloons when her friends had gone.

As for your daughter, you could try to get her used to them by starting with some balloons that aren’t inflated, then breathing air into them and letting it out, and explaining that even if it pops, it’s not going to hurt her.