SPR1107 Fri 25-Jan-19 19:35:34

Took DS 2.4 to a library group. They have a long room for the children and at the end is the reception desk. After the group, it returns back to normal library with some toys in too.



DS was on a small ride on, a little girl around 4 came over and asked if she could have a go, DS said no. I went over and knelt down next to him and explained that she'd asked him nicely, he needs to take turns, etc etc.

He was refusing, from her desk Library worker shouts 'DS if you can't share I will come and take that off you!' Thought it was odd, as I was knelt next to him, but thought maybe she was trying to be helpful. I continued explaining to him he needs to share etc, when she comes over and says 'Right OFF!' Whilst giving him a tap on the shoulder. His little face fell. She then took his arm, to stand him up, took the toy from underneath him saying 'if you can't share then nobody can have it' and removed the toy from the room.



She'd obviously shocked or frightened DS as he jumped in to my arms and was really upset. She then came back in to the room saying 'Mum, when he has finally calmed down, he can come and ask me nicely for it back'



The whole exchange happened in under 2 minutes.



I told her that I didn't think what she done was appropriate when I was dealing with it. She just said sorry and walked out the room.



5 minutes later she comes back with the toy, calls him over and starts making him promise to share before she gives it back to him.



As we left, she came up to him and said 'I noticed you like to play with cars, maybe next week when you come back, I'll get all the cars out for you and maybe even a garage!'.... we won't be returning.



So my questions are:



1. AIBU to think that wasn't an appropriate way to 'discipline' a 2.4 year old... or even to get involved when I was there (as was the other little girls mum, who seemed satisfied with how I was handling it!)

2. Should I complain? I always worry that complaining could result in someone losing their job, and then I'd feel awful. Did I say enough for her to maybe think twice next time and therefore the complaint not necessary?