I’m offended. Should I get over myself?

[Anonymous]

You're offended on your daughter's behalf, but does she even care?

Also, nobody is thinking that deeply. Hmmm, let's see, it's April, and Larla is in 8th grade, so in about a month or so, she'll be done with middle school, and then in June, she'll technically be in high school. So, even though she's technically still in middle school, she could be considered older. Yeah, nobody is doing all that. She wants someone older than middle school age. There's nothing offensive or wrong about that.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My older neighbor just approached me. I have no doubt she meant well and was just making conversation sans filter, but she told me that another neighbor on our small block, asked her if she knew of any good high-school aged babysitters, apparently they are looking for an occasional evening sitter or daytime helper for their 5yo. She said she immediately mentioned DD13/8th-rising 9th, and how she’s very mature and sweet with her grandkids. The neighbor told her no, they are looking for someone more mature, in high school. My neighbor told me I should introduce DD, maybe they will change their mind.

I’m sort of offended on DD’s behalf. In a month she will be a high schooler, and in a month from that, 14. I mean, some sophomores start the year at 14. She’s a neighbor recommended by another neighbor who has seen her interact with young kids. Now I’m irrationally angry at these neighbors and even though I know it’s not warranted, I can’t help it! How would you feel?

You are ridiculous! 99% of women who post on DCUM would have the same reaction to a 13 yr. old babysitter. Take your daughter over, introduce her and get her "audition" but paid.

[Anonymous]

OP, I have a kid who's the same age, also very mature and good with little kids, but this would not bother me in the slightest. Their preference is perfectly reasonable.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You're offended on your daughter's behalf, but does she even care?

Also, nobody is thinking that deeply. Hmmm, let's see, it's April, and Larla is in 8th grade, so in about a month or so, she'll be done with middle school, and then in June, she'll technically be in high school. So, even though she's technically still in middle school, she could be considered older. Yeah, nobody is doing all that. She wants someone older than middle school age. There's nothing offensive or wrong about that.

Thank you for taking the time to narrate this for OP, who is blinded by love.

[Anonymous]

It’s gonna be a hard, long road for you, lady, if you take stuff like this personally

[Anonymous]

Get over it.

It is 100000% within the rights of a parent to want a high schooler or an adult babysitter. Personally, I wasn't comfortable with high school kids until my kids were closer to 10.

Why would this offend you?

[Anonymous]

The only way I’d hire a 13 year old neighbor babysitter would be if she had a levelheaded mom at the ready to spring into action if the kid got in over their head. You’ve just disqualified yourself on that count.

[Anonymous]

Honestly the only two people I know (in my own circle) who used young teen sitters 1.) have fairly docile daughters and 2.) are the most un-anxious chill people I know.

So, yeah. Most people do not want sitters this young. Totally reasonable, and normal, to want sitters who can drive or are 18+.

[Anonymous]

I haven't read through the responses but the only way I'd be offended is if 1) the hiring family knows your kid and 2) goes with anotehr 8ther grader (which implies it was personal).

I'd be flattered by your older neighbor thinking your kid is mature enough to be in the "big leagues" despite age

[Anonymous]

You absolutely, 100%, need to get over yourself.

Also, OP, I have to break it to you, but your daughter likely will not be #1 in her class, the star of every sport she plays, the lead in the school play, the valedictorian, and will be rejected by at least one college to which she applies. Start preparing yourself now.

[Anonymous]

This is a strange reaction on your part. All other things being equal, I would prefer a sitter who is able to drive my kids if needed, which necessarily means an older high schooler.

[Anonymous]

I would feel like they have the right to prefer someone older. I wasn't offended when my neighbor said she'd prefer someone older than 13 year old DS to petsit her cat. I think he'd be fine, but she's giving out the keys to her house, and counting on him to get emergency vet care if the need arises.

[Anonymous]

omg what is wrong with you that you think this way and waste everyone's tine here posting about it? either grow up or get help

[Anonymous]

THERE IS NO GREATER HARM THAN BEING OFFENDED IN THE UNITED STATES.

[Anonymous]

13 is young. Dont be "that mom". Get over yourself.