AITA for Leaving My Niece and Nephew Behind on a Colorado Trip—But There’s a Surprising Reason Why?
“It is unreasonable to expect a single, 26-year-old person to change their vacation plans to single handedly manage two children on a cross-country trip. Having to ensure two young kids don’t get lost or two older kids don’t wander off in the forest, on the mountain, along the trail, at the rest stops, or in the airports is a pretty big ask of anyone,” the expert noted.
“It’s also interesting that someone is being asked to step in as a full-time caregiver, yet they only see the kids every few weeks. Being the ‘Fun Uncle’ is one thing, if you stop by occasionally, but being expected to be a ‘solo parent’ on a much anticipated vacation is totally different.”
It’s important to be able to set healthy boundaries, even when it comes to family members
According to Dr. Suzanne Degges-White, one of the reasons why some parents might expect their adult siblings to take their nieces and nephews on outings together is much-needed “time off.” “Parenting is hard work and it’s really a 24/7 job, so the idea of having someone else take over for a few days can be very, very appealing for even the most invested of parents,” she told Bored Panda. “Some people also often feel like blood ties are equivalent to lifelong obligations that mean that siblings are expected to help siblings no matter what the need might be.”
That’s why it’s important to set clear boundaries, even when it comes to brothers and sisters and their kids. The expert pointed out that boundaries play a significant role not only with family, but with friends or at the workplace, too.
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