Hey girl, it can be totally hard when you ask someone not to bother you, and they still won’t listen. It’s a common prob with sibs and other family members. It sounds like your cousin just wants your attention and the best way to deal with the situation is to give it to her...on a couple conditions.

Locked out

While you have the best intentions when you lock the door, to your cousin, it may seem like you’re shutting her out. When you’re working, try shutting the door but don’t lock it. If she comes in and wants to play, let her know you’d love to...when you’ve finished your homework.

Work fast

Before your cousin begins crying and screaming, try to talk to her levelheadedly. Be nice. Yes, it may be annoying that she’s constantly doing this, but she just wants to hang with you. When you talk to her, be sweet in your tone. Give her an incentive to leave you be: Tell her if she leaves you alone for now, you’ll get finished faster and then you can play.

Granny snitch

If she still tells your grandmother, and your grandmother reprimands you, stay cool. Tell your grandmother that you didn’t just tell your cousin to leave you alone; you told her you would play as soon as you finished your homework. Your granny will understand and appreciate your kinder approach. She may even help explain to your cousin that when someone is working, it’s important not to disturb them.