How do I let this next door neighbours child know im here for them?

[Anonymous]

there's a family that live next door to me they are very a wealthy, powerful family with 3 children.

We are a very friendly community and we believe it takes a village to raise a child not just a family.

The parents in this family are very pushy on there children especially the dad but they do not care for their youngest child who has learning disabilities from what I've gathered.

The mother doesn't really talk about much besides how beautiful her front garden is and materialistic things like handbags etc I think she just enjoys being a kept women. The dad on the other hand all he talks about are his two oldest children let's just call them 1 and 2. They are both around 10 to 12 years old whilst the little one is 7 I believe.

1 and 2 have pictures and trophies all around the house whilst the youngest is just ignored. The dad comes bragging to me about 1 and 2 and all the achievements. He says his children will be winners in life and will grow up to be important people. I asked what he had planned for the youngest and he kinda looked down at thr ground almost ashamed of this child and referred to them as a disappointment because they had learning disabilities said they will become nothing in life and will be living off them for the rest of there life.

I myself can relate to this child as I came from a similar home and have learning disabilities. I'm usually a quiet person but I lost it when he said that about his youngest child and told him how horrible he was and that he should be ashamed of himself not his child.

Ever since we have not spoken. I see this child hanging around in the street by themselves playing. They seem so lonely and depressed. 1 and 2 have everything they could ever want and need. Nice clothes and the latest toys whilst the youngest gets everything secondhand.

I got talking to this child a little when I saw them playing. There shoes were all ripped up and I asked they 1 and 2 had nice new trainers and theirs was all ripped. More below

Updates

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They said because theyd been bad. I asked what they did that was so bad. They said they kept failing in class and that 1 and 2 get rewarded with nice things because they are smart.

It broke me hearing this. Remembering thinking I was a bad child too for not being like the rest and struggling to learn. I married a rich man because I thought I could never achieve anything myself. Yes I'm happy and I love him very much but I don't want this child to have the same level of self doubt as myself.

[Oliverlogan263]

Oh man, that poor child :( It's so sad they think it's their fault for "being bad" when really it's just how they are and they need extra support, not punishment. You sound like you really understand what they're going through.

Maybe you could try casually including the little one when you see them playing alone? Bring over an extra toy or snack to share. Compliment their outfit even if it's secondhand - kids that age just want to feel seen. Over time they'll get used to your friendly presence.

You could also subtly offer help with schoolwork. Tell their parents you don't mind listening to them practice reading or doing puzzles to build confidence. With patience and encouragement, learning challenges can improve so much.

If the parents refuse help, focus on the kiddo directly. Let them know it's okay to be different and that you believe in their potential. With the right nurturing, anyone can succeed on their own path. They might start looking up to you as someone who understands.

It'll take kindness and consistency, but I know you can make a real difference in that child's life just by being in their corner. You've got this - their future could depend on the support and hope you provide!

[DrPepper12]

I think you already did too much. It's not advisable now