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”