To ask why some MNers are so against helping out families with young children?

[traytablestowed]

That really. I sense it's been done to death on here but nonetheless, I am interested to hear from retired people who don't help out with their grandchildren - why not? As a parent who has been surprised by the lack of support from my own family, I'm actually curious to hear all points of view - all comments welcome and I'm not looking for a fight here.

I think we all have had preconceived notions about how things will be: marriage, children, career, etc. Then when they don't turn out as we'd imagined there's disappointment, maybe even resentment. That's just being human.

This is true, and even more complicated when you take generation shifts into account - like how some people had their weddings organised by their parents but then didn't get to organise their children's weddings.

Some were half-raised by their grandparents but won't be doing the same for their kids. My MIL is desperate to have our newborn off us as to her that's the norm, but we're very happy looking after him between us and want the quality bonding time (not in a "you can't see him" way).

I work full time
It's tiring
I've had my kids
It's their choice to have kids
I'm retiring soon and intend travelling more.
I don't want to.