Neighbor Expects Free Babysitting, Crosses Boundaries!

Written by
BoisterousBeigeShadowBreadBoxInLondonWithPride
Published on
Monday, 14 October 2024
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The story

I have this neighbor, who constantly assumes it's okay to dump her child on me at the most inconvenient times without any prior notice. She appears to struggle with her role as a mother, particularly as she's on the older side and still has a 4-year-old at home that she seems unable to manage. Her son is quite spoiled and doesn’t understand the concept of boundaries.

Every time she spots me outside, she doesn’t even bother to ask; she just sends him over to my place and assumes I’ll take over. It’s reached a point where they both would just walk right into my house if I didn’t respond quickly enough and the door was left unlocked from the inside. I’ve expressed my discomfort with her behavior, but occasionally, she still leaves things on my kitchen counter without permission.

Just last week, she pretended to have a severe migraine which she claimed turned into a concussion. She called an ambulance, but even after the medics assured her she was fine and hospitalization wasn’t necessary, she insisted. Then, she casually informed me that I would need to look after her son for the evening and the following morning, including dropping him off at kindergarten, before leaving her child crying behind her.

Then, just yesterday, merely two days after another draining episode, she had the nerve to ask if I could feed her son dinner because she "couldn’t be bothered" as I was on my way out. I refused, and she responded with a harsh stare before retreating into her house, muttering about how she’s always there for others, yet no one seems willing to reciprocate.

Am I being unreasonable for refusing to cater to her whims concerning her child, or should I be more understanding?

Imagine if this situation were part of a reality show. The cameras rolling as my neighbor blatantly oversteps boundaries could either paint me as a villain for not helping a struggling mother or as a victim of her irresponsible behavior. The audience might be split. Some could sympathize with my desire for personal boundaries, while others might argue that community support is crucial and I should be more accommodating.

However, is there not a limit to how much one should be expected to intervene in someone else’s parental responsibilities, especially when taken for granted so explicitly?

I'm tired of my neighbor dropping her kid on me! What would you
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Points of view

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EmeraldSteelBlueWaterCoffeeThermosInChicagoWithDisappointment
22d ago

It seems that some empathy and understanding towards the neighbor's situation might be beneficial :-)

It is true that boundaries are important for healthy relationships; nonetheless, extending a helping hand occasionally can foster community spirit and support.


As a parent myself, I recall the overwhelming moments when help from others was invaluable. While it is important not to enable dependency, maintaining open communication and setting clear expectations can bridge gaps in understanding. Your situation could be an opportunity for growth and fostering a stronger community; with an open heart and firm, respectful boundaries, a balance can be found.

SpiritedCoralLightningSnollygosterInBangkokWithCuriosity
22d ago

I gotta be real with you: this situation is totally not okay and you're absolutely in the right here... it's like she's taking total advantage of your kindness 😤


I get that people go through hard times... but come on... there's a line and she's crossed it more times than I can count! It's quite audacious if you ask me!

You're not obligated to be her personal babysitter 💁‍♂️ and honestly it's high time she takes responsibility for her own...

PrancingChartreuseAirFreezerInLisbonWithGuilt
20d ago

I completely understand your frustration!!! It's definitely not cool to have someone pushing their parental duties onto you without asking😟!!! You have every right to set your boundaries and expect them to be respected; seriously, it's about mutual respect and understanding... It’s awesome that you've tried to be understanding, but everyone has their limits... Your home is your own space, and it's key to keep it feeling safe and comfortable!!!


Hopefully, with clear communication and some patience, things will get better for you both! Keep your chin up!!! 😊