Sensitive issue of a client with a rowdy child

[NailsBeautyEtc]

Hello all

I was wondering if you would be able to offer me your opinion.

I see a gel polish client who is also a friend. Usually she comes to me - her young child comes with her and because they are still young they (understandably) constantly need her attention.

The child picks up my equipment (I do say to stop, politely) and pulls the cable on my lamp which has led to it almost falling. Today it was a high pitched screaming that made my ears buzz plus constant interruptions. I honestly feel guilty.

I feel that because of the distractions my work isn't 100% how I would like it to be either. I do get quite distracted and I wasn't 100% happy with my work. An air bubble here, an uneven patch there. Not noticeable to her but I can see it.

Today I went to her house in the hope that the child would be more entertained but sadly not.

I am torn - I appreciate my friend's support in my business however I struggle to work well and keep to time with the child around. I do have a child of my own but I wouldn't take them a long for my treatments as I would find it too stressful!

I am of the mind that I will just carry on as it is but I would appreciate your opinions or advice.

Also, just to note - I am unable to see her without the child as she has no childcare.

Thank you

 

[asteropi]

Well preferably it would be for her to find someone to take care of the child for the 30’ of the appointment.
If that’s not possible how about you set a cartoon or a Disney movie playing on TV while she’s having the treatment. You can tell him that if he behaves he can get to see the rest the next time, so something for him to wait for; although I doubt he will actually.
If you are not comfortable carrying on with it you don’t have to; you are not a kindergarten facility.

 

[user 111574]

It's a difficult situation to be in. I'm sure we've all been there!
How old is the child?
Does your friend pay you?

Personally, I wouldn't carry on working in that way. Perhaps it's time to bite the bullet and say "due to insurance rules" you cannot have a child below the age of xx in the treatment room (chemicals, sharp objects etc).
I'm sure H&S says that products and equipment should be out of reach of children anyway...
Say you can start doing her nails again once little ... goes to pre-school.

I think she is taking advantage of you tbh, she wouldn't do it to another salon would she?

 

[NailsBeautyEtc]

Thanks for the replies ☺

Yes she does pay me although not at the rate other clients would. No she probably wouldn't expect it in a salon - I think because I work from home she considers it to be more of a relaxed environment. Not for me however!

I might try the Disney film and discuss alternatives if the child plays up again.

It's definitely a tough situation and a hard conversation to have!

Thanks again.