'Betsy's' poor social skills apparently came from her mom

Dear Annie: There are quite a few children on our block, ranging in age from 5 to 11. The kids are always outside playing. The problem is one little girl I'll call "Betsy." Betsy is pushy and always invites herself into the group. Most of the kids don't like to play with her.
On weekends, as a family, we like to go outside and play with just our children. But as soon as Betsy hears us, she comes running over and won't take "no" for an answer. I can't tell you the number of times we've had to go inside just to get away from her.
The real problem is Betsy's mother. If the kids say they can't play or don't want to include Betsy, her mother comes outside and makes the other kids feel guilty until they let Betsy in. The mom also allows Betsy to phone people multiple times within an hour and go to their homes over and over to see when the kids can play.
Many of us are bewildered and don't know what to do. We have told our children not to be mean or rude, but I don't think it's fair that they should be forced to play with Betsy just because she lives on our street. Any suggestions other than moving? Frustrated Neighbor in Crown Point, Ind.
Dear Frustrated: Betsy has obviously learned her poor social skills from her mother. Still, when children play outside in full view, it is unreasonable and cliquish not to include other neighborhood kids. Under those circumstances, we hope your children will play with Betsy, like it or not. If Betsy intrudes when you are in your backyard, however, you should escort her home and tell her (and her mother) that this is family-only time, sorry. When she phones repeatedly, tell her she is allowed only one call per day, remind her when she calls back, and hang up. The same goes for ringing the bell. Since her mother won't teach her these things, you'll have to.
Dear Annie: My son is 9 years old and has recently been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder. He may also be a little bit oppositional defiant. I am trying to find the best way to help him. He is on medication, and we have been trying to get him into therapy.
I've been reading a lot about a new procedure called neurofeedback. Is this something that really works? Is it worth the expense? Frustrated Mom
Dear Mom: The jury is still out on neurofeedback for children. Studies have shown it can be helpful, but generally, the children who do best with it are also in a comprehensive treatment program that includes counseling, behavior modification and sometimes medication. There are also videogames that use neurofeedback to promote retraining the brain -- a cheaper alternative, if you want to try them. (Check out smartbraingames.com.) Your best bet is to discuss all options with your son's doctor.
Dear Annie: Many years ago, my husband was told he had diabetes, and he took insulin. However, when his mother died almost three years ago, he decided to stop taking his drugs and began eating all the things he shouldn't.
I have tried to get him to check his sugar levels, but he won't. I also have told him to go to the doctor, but since we don't have insurance, he refuses. What can I do? Concerned Wife
Dear Concerned: Since this happened after his mother died, it's very likely your husband is suffering from depression. People who care about themselves take their health seriously. Contact the American Diabetes Association (diabetes.org) at (800) DIABETES (800-342-2383) for information and local referrals.
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