Woman Faces Criticism For Not Wanting To Entertain Kids As "Favorite Aunt" During Family Gathering
The title of "favorite aunt" is often cherished and sought after by those who adore their nieces and nephews. It signifies a special bond, one filled with affection, fun, and memorable moments. Being the beloved aunt means that you hold a unique place in the hearts of the young ones in your family, and that's a role many cherish.
However, along with the endearing title of "favorite aunt" comes a set of unspoken expectations. One of these rules is that people often expect the favorite aunt to take care of the kids or keep them busy when the family gets together.
While this can be a nice job, it can also be a bit tiring sometimes. Even though most people accept this responsibility with love and a sense of duty, there are moments when it feels like a lot to handle.
OP (28F) has a deep affection for her nieces and nephews and actively seeks to create enjoyable memories with them, considering her workplace demands seriousness. She frequently takes them out for outings, showers them with gifts, and relishes their time together.
However, an issue arises when family gatherings necessitate OP's role as the go-to entertainer for the children. She is tasked with keeping them occupied and well-behaved during such events, which she initially didn't mind, assuming it was part of her family responsibilities.
During a recent family dinner at her brother's house, OP expressed her desire to relax with a glass of wine on the balcony instead of entertaining the kids, to which her brother initially agreed. However, he later requested her help due to the children's disruptive behavior.
When she declined, he responded with a hurtful comment, insinuating that this was the reason she was invited. This comment deeply upset OP, leading her to leave the gathering prematurely. Subsequently, she faced criticism from her siblings, some of them labeling her reaction as dramatic.
OP is the only aunt her nieces have and OP enjoys creating fun memories with them
At family gatherings, OP is main person for entertaining the kids
The problem occurs when OP refuses to quiet the kids, and her brother's remark about her being the primary entertainer at family gatherings increases her annoyance, causing her to leave the dinner.
OP's family shouldn't exploit her kindness by making her the default nanny
Being the cool aunt doesn't make OP responsible for parenting
OP's decision to take a break at family gatherings and let their siblings handle parenting duties is justified and not an overreaction.
That's unfair.
OP's brother and others are wrong for constantly leaving the kids with OP
OP's family is taking advantage of her during family gatherings by expecting her to be the default nanny, and this is unfair.
OP's brother openly admitted they're exploiting OP as a babysitter for their kids
OP's brother made it clear they're only interested in OP's service, not her company.
OP needs to tell them that she is not a nanny, she is also a part of the family.
Being the "favorite aunt" has its good and not-so-good moments, just like anyone's life. It feels wonderful to have a blast with your nieces and nephews, but sometimes, it can be challenging, especially when people expect a ton from you at family gatherings.
What OP should do is have a heart-to-heart with her family about her feelings. She can simply say that she loves hanging out with the kids but also needs some downtime during family get-togethers.
It's important for her to make it clear that setting boundaries isn't about being less caring; it's about looking after herself.
OP's brother and his unkind comment were just plain mean and unfair. She totally had the right to be upset and leave the gathering early. In the future, if something like this happens again, she should calmly but firmly stand up for herself and say that she won't put up with being treated poorly.
