Everyone knows that when a child is determined to do something, they will pursue it no matter what others think. While having a curious and independent nature is valuable, it can occasionally lead to trouble. This was the case for a poster seeking advice on how to handle kids repeatedly damaging their yard.
The post sparked numerous responses, but the standout advice came from a man who tackled a similar issue in an unexpectedly creative way. What made his story especially popular was his unique approach—and the involvement of Kronos, which added a clever twist that captured everyone’s attention.
More info: Quora
Imagine going for a swim in your own pool only to find a bunch of strangers already enjoying themselves in it
The man told readers that he had bought a new house with a pool, and one day, he found random kids already swimming in it, so when they were done, he told them it was off-limits
The same thing happened again a couple of days later, even though he had told the children not to use his pool, so he decided to get a furry companion that would scare them away
So I sat outside to watch the kids to make sure they stay safe while swimming. After a couple hours they got out and left, saying hi as they left. Just as they were leaving. I told the kids that I really do not want anyone in my pool except me or my family, because of liability issues. Plus I am afraid the kids will urinate in the pool. (I did not tell them that.) So I told them my pool is off limits. They looked at me as if to say “Whatever “. Then they left.
It was OK for a couple days. Then one Saturday I heard the sound of someone in my pool. So outside I sit and watch the neighborhood kids. Like I said before I am single. With no companion. I had always wanted a dog. I thought not only would I have a life companion, I would also have a way to guard my home. So one day I brought my friend home. I installed a dog door and got him a huge comfy dog bed
He got an English bulldog and named him Kronos, and when the kids saw the dog, they were too afraid to use the pool anymore
The man shared a picture to help folks understand what Kronos looked like, and he also said that he liked kids but didn’t want them swimming in his pool due to liability issues
The best part is that the guy even told the children that they could use his pool once in a while, but only if they asked their parents to supervise them
Moving into a new home is a time to relax and enjoy its perks, but one homeowner faced a problem when neighborhood kids began using his pool without permission. Despite warning them to stop, they continued returning, forcing him to find a solution that balanced boundaries with understanding.
Recognizing the kids simply wanted to have fun, he offered a compromise. They could use the pool occasionally, but only if their parents were present to supervise them. This way, he ensured safety, avoided potential issues, and maintained a respectful balance.
companion. Not only did this keep the kids from approaching the pool, but it also allowed him to enjoy it in peace. The presence of the bulldog effectively set a boundary, all without resorting to harsh words or blame.
Parenting expert Camilla Miller highlighted that many parents view boundaries as a way to control behavior through consequences or punishments. However, she explained that this approach often leads to power struggles and resistance, missing the opportunity to teach valuable skills. Instead, boundaries should help children learn to respect others while encouraging them to find constructive ways to meet their own needs.
She shared a few examples of effective boundary-setting with children, such as:
- “Instead of ‘Stop running in the house,’ say, ‘You can run outside or jump on this cushion.’
- Instead of ‘Stop yelling,’ say, ‘You can use a loud voice outside or in your room.’
- Instead of ‘Don’t grab that,’ say, ‘You can ask for a turn or choose something else to play with.’
This way, kids learn that boundaries aren’t about shutting them down. They’re about respecting others’ boundaries while still pursuing their own wants: a skill they’ll use for life.”
This happened to the poster more than 40 years ago, and it’s wonderful to see that even after so many years, people absolutely love his creative idea. What clever way would you have used to keep the kids out of your yard?
Folks were amused by the guy’s awesome idea as well as his dog’s cool name
Bill Reynolds: It is sad that you had to do that! People and their children should respect others’ property
Steve Dutch : Liability is also the general answer to them climbing your tree.
Jessica Jenkins :Next time they do that, you need to call the authorities
Tom McDonough : There is such a thing as being too nice.
Patricia Beck :
I wouldn’t have been nice about the kids in my pool. I put up with garbage in my yard and kids picking and teasing my dog. The police would have been next door talking to the parents.
Trisha Walsh :
That was a good decision. If it had been my boy, he would’ve scared the pants off those kids with his loud bellowing barks! I’m sure Kronos can be equally as intimidating
Prisha
Woah, you sound like the coolest neighbour ever! My neighbours would often throw trash in my yard and never apologised for it. Some people just lack tact.
P.S Kronos is a great name.
Mark Kosmowski
I imagine that the first time the neighbor’s kids tracked dog poop into the neighbor’s house from your beautiful dog loved yard would also be the last time. I’m sure you have friends with dogs who would help if you didn’t want commit full time to owning a dog.
