Pets

The kids told her you're alright. That is a major breakthrough!

Something came to mind while reading your post... have you tried sitting down where they can approach you at their leisure? Can you sit on the porch step and let them come up and approach you while you are relaxed and sitting? that may move thing along too. By not standing you are showing an attempt to see them on their level, it's a body language thing.

Some time ago I had the opportunity to "meet" some half wild wolves, they were ambassadors who toured the country helping to educate the public about their species. It was a well conceived and conducted program and I approved funding for it more than once with my org. Anyway, I had the opportunity to visit the tour bus and meet these beings. There were two, glad my fellow org officer was there with his camera, but what I was instructed was to squat so that I was at face level and they could look at me eye to eye. It was fantastic, I had to win their trust but once they decided I was okay it was kisses and snuggles. I fed them some cooked meat and if I hadn't held my hand flat, I would might have suffered some injured fingers. The point being, sitting down and letting them come to you on their terms on occasion can move the trust needle in your favor in a hurry, especially if you offer them treats.

Just a thought.