"I'm Not Home" in Georgetown, Kentucky

ONE CENT:  I totally hear what you’re saying!  I don’t know how many Girl Scout cookies we’ve bought in the last few years (surprisingly and sadly for our waistlines, they ALL get eaten…).  If you’re strapped for cash, perhaps writing a check directly to the school or organization (for $5 or $10) rather than spending $20 on candy or wrapping paper you don’t need, is a better way to support the kids in your neighborhood.  Door-to- door solicitation can actually be a great learning experience for your children while also helping a cause.  Your children can learn to speak graciously and politely, interact with neighbors they don’t often see and learn to be responsible with money.   You also might all get a good laugh when you see the neighbor scurry out of sight when they see you at the door!

TWO CENT:  Dear Not Home,

As One Cent said, selling things door-to-door is a good way for kids to learn how to interact with neighbors graciously, even if they're having to accept your polite regrets.  My husband and I had a discussion recently at a basketball game when high school seniors kept hitting us up for various things. After I'd bought a spaghetti supper and two packages of fudge, I said no to the next person. My husband had missed the first three transactions and was aghast when I'd said no to the poor little girl who only wants to go to Washington, DC for her class trip. So we ended up with three packages of fudge and I felt a little miffed at the whole scene.  My husband, however, chalked it up as the cost of community.  

Nonetheless, if you actually can't afford these items, feel no shame or guilt.  Tough decisions are being made all across America, and it's good for kids to understand this. In the real world,  consumers won't be "Pity Customers" who willingly buy a $20 roll of hideous wrapping paper just because they know your mom.  So, put on your best smile, don't show annoyance, and shut the door knowing you taught them one of the best lessons a salesperson can learn: sell something the customer wants, at a good price.