What would you do? Long!

cozybluebear

During the week I babysit our cousin's little girl who just turned one. I've had her since she was only a few months old and things have been fine. This week however is making me question whether or not I want to continue watching her. This is how our week started out...

Her Mother decided to start weaning her off the bottle which I was fine helping with. Her plan for weaning was to just cut her off from the bottle "cold turkey" and expect her to take to a cup. It's not how I did it with my son but it's not my place to judge another mother's parenting. The problem is, she was giving her the bottle all weekend and decided to start weaning her Monday morning when she dropped her off with me! I spent all day yesterday with a screaming baby who was starving and refused the cup.

Then today she decided that she wants to wean her off of milk! Milk! She just turned one! Again, I am not her mother so I can not judge... I just have to accept her wishes for her child. So today she is refusing all food, I finally get her to take her sippy cup of water but she wants milk.

The other day I told her that we bought our son a potty so he can start getting familiar with it. Today I get a text from her asking if I want 2 cases of size 5 diapers that she has. I asked her why she is giving them away because her daughter is in size 4 right now. She responded by telling me that she won't need them because she's sure her daughter will be a fast potty trainer especially since I can work with her all day.

Its been months of behavior like this. I just feel like they are putting too much responsibility on me for their child. She's with me for 12 hours a day so I completely understand that they need my help with these things but I feel like their requests are just unrealistic. Would you continue doing things their way or secretly go against their wishes and do it your own way?

cozybluebear

You're absolutely right. I told her that she responds but she could seem to care less. What bothers me is that they give her bottles at home because they say that the crying is too much for them. I just hate confronting other parents about their decisions and techniques. I guess all I can do is mention it and see if there is a change. If not, I'll have to let them put her back in daycare where they are less likely to keep their mouths closed. Thanks for your opinion.

jobiann

The bottle I wouldn't have an issue with but the milk milk I would. I'd have to speak up and tell her that I don't think it's right to take away milk at this young age and then show her the recommendation from the AAP. By her response to this, you'll know your next move. To continue, or to not watch her daughter any longer. GL!