How do I stop strangers from touching my toddler without being rude?

nolanrozecall

I live in a rental complex with many older residents who are often around.

My 18‑month‑old daughter just started walking, so we’re out using her energy in the complex all the time.

At least once daily someone touches her, saying “what a little cutie” or “hello little one.” A few times a day I notice passersby or elevator mates touching her without permission (if she reaches!out, I don’t make a big deal).

I’m considering asking management to send a notice asking people to keep their hands to themselves around children.

Does anyone else experience this constantly? With specific demographics? How do you handle it without being rude? I’m about to snap back at everyone because I’m pissed off.

drpatonchris

Welcome to older individuals. Most of them seem to love little kids, often doing funny things to make them smile. It’s not a huge deal, unless one is a strong germaphobe. Very few appear to overstep a boundary. If they do, that’s when you might say, “please don’t touch.”

You can ask management, but why would they post it unless simply to be nice, even though they still can’t enforce it? Public place.

TerryTheTank

Yeah, I’d never touch someone’s kid unsolicited… but if the kid reaches out to high‑five you or something, that’s different.

BarryMchaggis

Most older people find JOY in witnessing new life beginnings; it warms their hearts to recall the smiles of the little ones they once had.

TubaMadMonkey42

Are we defining “older people” as 75+? That seems harmless, but 40 would be a problem.