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, 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!
