Originally Posted by ssgramma
go from Denver, CO to London, UK with her almost 90 y.o. Great Grandmother? It would be on an organized tour.
We are apalled that her Dad actually asked her Mom (divorced) to allow it. The Mom is looking for any and all ways to say no without being ugly about it.
So, if you would not allow it please tell us why ;-)
Or if you would let her go what is your reasoning?
First off, I would ask, does the child want to go? What does the child think they will gain from the trip?
If the 11 y.o. was considered mature I think it would be a great experience. Does she follow direction and instructions? It would also be a comfort to the great grandmother to have a little helper along. What a time to make memories that will never ever be forgotten.
If the youngster is considered responsible and mature I think it would be an awesome trip for both. What an opportunity to see a part of the world that will be studied in school. There may be a way that the trip could be used for school credit.
Are there going to be any other family members in the UK? How long is the trip? Are there any other younger children going on the same tour? Have they in the past? Have you checked with the tour guides and asked their opinion? Will they (child and ggm) have the ability to be in daily contact with each other (mom and dad)? What is the health of the great-grandmother? With an organized tour you are with tour guides all through-out the day. I'm sure that ggm would always be right together.
Please try not to add everyone's feelings from the divorce into this decision making process. It is very easy to say no because of grudges. Please keep in mind the wonderful opportunity provided to the child. Don't keep an opportunity of a life-time from the child because of being divorced. That would be selfish.
Pam M