My daughter-in-law (DIL) has two kids from her previous marriage and a child with my son. She asked me to babysit, and I agreed to watch my grandson but said I’d need to be paid for babysitting her other two kids. She didn’t respond, but the next day, I found her locks changed and couldn’t get into her house. When I called, she told me I wasn’t welcome anymore because I treat her kids differently.
I tried to explain it wasn’t favoritism—I love her kids, too—but babysitting three children is overwhelming for me as a retired person. I offered to watch my grandson since he’s family but felt I needed compensation for all three. Now, there’s tension in the family, and my son is stuck in the middle.I feel hurt and guilty for the stress caused but also believe my boundaries should be respected. How can I address this without deepening the rift?
Sincerely,
Helen”