What a strange and sexist question. I’ve been asked by random mothers to carry their buggy with kid up the stairs, off the train etc. before. If I would speak the local language where I live, I probably would’ve offered. Judging by the comments here, I’m glad I didn’t make that mistake.
Oh, if I’m asked, it’s a different story. It means the mom needs the help and does not mind it. But it’s a sad fact that too many people (particularly in the US) are paranoid and their mind immediately goes to the worst possible scenario in a new situation. So if I offer without any context whatsoever, they will think I’m some sort of weirdo.
I’ve been given the stink eye before while at a playground – while watching my kids. Hey, Karen, sometimes dads help out with the kids, too!
Well Americans are kind of known for not keeping to themselves and being chatty with strangers, when abroad at least. Even personal questions etc. So it’s strange to draw the line at helping others.
You’re probably meeting our weirdos in those cases… Trust me we get other countries weirdos (mostly in our touristy spots) too.
We can be chatty with strangers but it’s typically very surface level stuff “what’s a nice place to eat around here”, “that’s a really cute dog”, “any recommendations for things to do while we’re here”, etc
What a strange and sexist question. I’ve been asked by random mothers to carry their buggy with kid up the stairs, off the train etc. before. If I would speak the local language where I live, I probably would’ve offered. Judging by the comments here, I’m glad I didn’t make that mistake.
Oh, if I’m asked, it’s a different story. It means the mom needs the help and does not mind it. But it’s a sad fact that too many people (particularly in the US) are paranoid and their mind immediately goes to the worst possible scenario in a new situation. So if I offer without any context whatsoever, they will think I’m some sort of weirdo.
I’ve been given the stink eye before while at a playground – while watching my kids. Hey, Karen, sometimes dads help out with the kids, too!
Well Americans are kind of known for not keeping to themselves and being chatty with strangers, when abroad at least. Even personal questions etc. So it’s strange to draw the line at helping others.
You’re probably meeting our weirdos in those cases… Trust me we get other countries weirdos (mostly in our touristy spots) too.
We can be chatty with strangers but it’s typically very surface level stuff “what’s a nice place to eat around here”, “that’s a really cute dog”, “any recommendations for things to do while we’re here”, etc