My toddler broke an item whilst in the care of my mother: who should pay?

[Voodoocowgirl]

I was recently on holidays with my mother, my three children, my partner and some other family members. We were having lunch at a café in a nursery that has a large area full of garden decorations and other items for sale.

My mother offered to take my 2 year old for a walk in the nursery so that I could eat my lunch in peace. She took him for about 20 minutes, we all finished eating, and then when we were all leaving my mother mentioned that my son had picked up a decorative drum while she had her back turned, took off with it and dropped it on the concrete, causing a scratch. She said the cashier asked her to pay for it, which she did. It was $200!!

I live in Australia, and the law is very clear that if you break something accidentally in a store, you are NOT legally obligated to purchase it. I was well out of sight and over 30 metres away when it occurred, and was unaware of what had happened. My mother is now very unhappy and wants me to pay for the drum. I have told her that I will pay for the drum (which is useless to me) just to keep the peace, but I'm annoyed about the situation.

WWYD?

I think it's your responsibility to pay for it. It's your child. Your mum was doing you a favour and shouldn't be out of pocket.

It is your child ultimately your responsibility

In this instance I would say no.

As you say, there is no legal obligation to pay, this was her choice that she did not consult you on or even inform you of what had happened at the time. She was also in charge of your child at the time which is relevant here.

In this particular instance she has learned a harsh lesson.

Further to that... how many more times will you be faced with a bill for something because your mother has not been responsible enough to watch your child? Her grandchild, her responsibility.

I'm sorry but the "your child, your responsibility to pay" does not fly with me.

She's not doing you a favour when you end up saddled with a $200 bill.

Im swayed to say your child your debt....

I'm glad your mum insisted as in no way was it your responsibility to pay, and frankly I'd think you a mug if you were convinced to! Your son is gorgeous btw!

What a lovely update! It's so rare to read a thread on MN where everyone acts decently and preserves great relationships with a good outcome all round. Your mum sounds lovely, and so do you, and your little one is gorgeous.

Good outcome, OP.