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My Daughter Wants Me to Babysit After Cutting Me Off

A mother seeks advice after her estranged daughter asks her to babysit. Should she help despite being cut off for years?

It’s a great privilege to have family care for our children while we juggle work and responsibilities, especially when it’s done out of love and without charge. But is it fair to expect this kind of support from parents after past conflicts?

My Daughter
Photo by LinkedIn Sales Solutions on Unsplash

The letter:

My daughter, Amy, distanced herself from me when she turned 18. She left me out of important life events like her graduation, engagement, and more. Our relationship is practically non-existent, and we rarely talk.

Recently, she reached out to me—she’s now a mother of two boys.

I was taken aback when she contacted me, and we eventually had a conversation. Soon, Amy started complaining about how hard it was to raise her children without help.

She asked if I could babysit her kids on Saturdays and play the role of a good grandparent. I told her that she damaged our relationship long ago, and I’m not in a position to care for her children now.

She accused me of being selfish and blocked me everywhere. Was I wrong to refuse? After everything between us, should I have agreed to help with the kids? I’d love to hear your advice.

Share your advice in the comments!

Written by DADADEL

Adelaida, the founder of Dadadel Creative, boasts a multifaceted background, blending expertise in software engineering, copywriting, and digital marketing. Prior to establishing her agency, she honed her skills as the former Head of the News Department at a regional media outlet, and also amassing 18 years of experience as a host. She has a penchant for sarcasm, a passion for lifestyle topics, and an undeniable love for cats.

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