DEAR ABBY

DEAR ABBY: I am a single mom with a 7-year-old son, "Jason." We're new
to the neighborhood, but Jason has made friends with three boys from a
family who lives across the street. The kids are great, and they all
play well together.

However, the boys' mother is irresponsible and cannot be trusted. I
know for a fact that she steals from stores and dabbles in illegal
substances. I want my son to have friends, but I refuse to allow him
to play at their home. Am I wrong? How should I explain this to the
boys' mother if she asks why Jason isn't allowed to come over? --
MICHIGAN MOM

DEAR MICHIGAN MOM: You're not wrong. You're a mother who has her
priorities straight. If the woman asks you why you want the children
at your home, tell her with a smile that you feel more secure if you
are supervising them. It's the truth -- but don't be surprised if it's
a question she never asks.

More to the point is the question you did NOT ask. If the boys' mother
is into drugs and thievery, you would be doing the boys a favor to
notify Child Protective Services. You can ask that your name not be
used.

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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips,
and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Write Dear Abby at
www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
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