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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To get no help with childcare from grandparents

256 replies

Maxi77 · 21/01/2026 11:15

Since my nearly 14 month old daughter was born, I've had very little help from my parents. I'd estimate they've seen her once every two months at best, despite living a 20 min drive away. In terms of actual child care, it would be an hour and a half total (at most) since she was born, most of which was looking after her while i had to pick DH up from hospital. Yes they are older, and I by no means expect lots of free childcare, but I can't help but feel disappointed that I don't get any help (especially now I'm back at work) and DC really has no real relationship with them. I honestly think they love the idea of a grandchild and talking to their friends about it/wearing it has a badge of honour, but are thoughtless/selfish in term's of actually providing any help. Their 'activities' or having the cleaner over takes priority over providing any help. DHs parents live very far away, but have made far more of an effort to see her. I do feel somewhat envious when I see other grandparents pushing their grand kids around or taking them to activities. Or friends of mine who are able to go out and leave baby with their mums.

AIBU to feel like I've got a raw deal?

Gosh it was cathartic to write this down!

OP posts:
Reassurancells · 21/01/2026 11:20

I can see both sides.

I can see that you’d like help but also that they’re older and have done their time.

do you ask them round without an expectation of babysitting ?

TomeletteswithGreggs · 21/01/2026 11:20

I am usually on the side of GPs, but an hour and a half in 14 months does sound dire! Do they still work?

I would likely help my DC at least every other weekend perhaps.

LindorDoubleChoc · 21/01/2026 11:20

Do they get the vibe from you that if they come over to see you, or if you go to visit them, that you'll leave your child with them so that you can go off and do something alone? Ie. are you only interested in what they can offer in terms of childcare, or are they still valued members of your family?

bathsmat · 21/01/2026 11:19

Yes, my parents & in-laws helped as did theirs. The norm for my friends too but you will be told on here that it’s wrong to expect some help.

Intheorrifice · 21/01/2026 11:17

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Pinkertoner · 21/01/2026 11:17

Not a raw deal at all. The child is yours not theirs. They have lives they like living, and small children are often quite boring.

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