The article addresses a concern from a grandmother about her son's family's behavior during visits. She has a strict rule against food and drinks in certain areas of her home, which conflicts with her son's more relaxed parenting. After a spill caused by her grandchildren, she felt guilty and stressed. Miss Manners advises that while guest comfort is important, there should be clear boundaries for children's behavior and the importance of respecting household rules. The grandmother is encouraged to communicate her expectations clearly and to consider the sleeping arrangements for a more equitable solution.
Your son cannot have his coffee and his jumping kids, too. If he does not want to waste things, he should have an interest in keeping food and beverages safely at the dining table.
Just because they want to jump on the furniture and throw things in the house does not mean it should be allowed. A reiteration of that, and your other house rules, is reasonable and warranted.
While Miss Manners generally agrees that guests' comfort takes precedence over rugs and furniture, she has her limits, and they usually apply to children.
You could try saying loudly, Margo, wouldn't you prefer to sleep on the bed? I'm sure the kids won't mind the cot.
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