How to Say No to Babysitting

Whether you are have a friend or neighbor who constantly asks if you can babysit and you cannot or do not want to, or you have a relative who insists on babysitting your own kids, and you don't feel comfortable with the situation, there are a few ways you can politely say no to babysitting.

Instructions

    • 1

      Be gentle, but honest. If a friend or relative is constantly asking you to watch her children while she goes out for evening or until she returns from work, do not shy away from being honest, but also be gentle with her. For example, maybe you are sick, you are having family problems or you have too many other priorities. Be honest. Tell the other mother how you are feeling, whether you currently are too busy or if the timing just isn't right.

      If it is a relative, such as your mother or mother-in-law, who wants to babysit your own children, apply the same concept. Be gentle, but honest about how you feel. Tell her you greatly appreciate her kindness and are lucky to have someone willing to help out. Explain that you would like to spend time with your children yourself after work, or you are happy with their daycare, since it provides opportunities for learning and socialization.

    • 2

      Be firm. If your friend or neighbor still asks you to babysit after telling her how you feel, it is time for a sit-down chat. Be honest and firm. Tell her you are not able to take on any new responsibilities. This doesn't mean you will never be available, but at the moment you have other priorities that come first.

      If your relative continues to insist she should babysit your children, sit down with her for a one-on-one talk. Explain your situation; perhaps your only time with your children is after work, or that you want them to have the education and socialization that daycare offers. Thank your relation again and assure her that she will have plenty of opportunities to see your children.

    • 3

      Work out a compromise. If you are willing to compromise, devise a plan with your friend. For example, you might agree to babysit her children once or twice a week, in exchange for her doing the same when you need a babysitter.

      With your relation, it is likely that she either wants to feel needed or spend more time with her grandchildren. Work out a schedule for regular visits; perhaps she can have the children for the afternoon once or twice a week, or the kids can spend the night at grandma's every other Friday.

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