Having elderly employees at a workplace can be difficult to manage.
OP (27f) runs a small childcare business with six employees, including K (17f) and B (86f). B is elderly but active, often playing physically with the kids. A few weeks ago, while playing, B tripped and fell, needing 911 assistance. K, alone with over a dozen kids, had to handle the situation, which was stressful for her. K privately asked OP to instruct B and the kids to be less physical to prevent future incidents. OP talked to the kids and parents about being gentler with B. However, B accused OP of being ageist and insisted she could handle herself. The coworkers are divided. AITA?
Scroll down below to read the story in OP’s own words.
1. OP asks if it was wrong for giving instructions to an elderly employee to avoid rough play with kids, despite her feeling capable and coworkers being divided?
2. OP (27f) runs a small childcare business with six employees, including K (17f) and B (86f).
3. B, though in good shape, is elderly and struggles with movement. She plays with kids physically and works later in the day when K is working.
4. A few weeks ago, B let the kids get rough with her. K tried to intervene, but B assured her it was fine.
5. Later, a child hugged B too hard, causing her to fall. K called 911 while managing the kids. B was fine and released the next day.
6. The event was hard on K, who asked OP to instruct B and the kids to avoid being too physical, fearing a repeat incident.
7. OP informed kids and parents to be gentler with B. B accused OP of ageism, insisting she could handle it. Coworkers are divided.
Now that you have read the story, it’s time for you to see what Redditors had to say about this. Read till the end to see what are other people’s opinions on this. Don’t forget to share your own opinion at the end of this article.
8. The kids should be the one to behave.
9. This behavior would keep everyone at peace.
10. B deserves respect and autonomy. She is aware of her capabilities and should be allowed to make her own decisions regarding her interactions with the children.
11. This seems like an alarming situation.
12. Roughhousing should never be tolerated in a childcare facility.
13. OP, you need to learn more about how to handle a childcare.
14. YTA for leaving the kids alone in this setting.
15. A childcare experienced person gives some insight.
16. There should be more young employees.
17. By telling B to limit her physical interactions, you’re not acknowledging her experience and skills.
18. Ageism isn’t the answer. Limiting B’s activities based on her age alone is discriminatory.
19. There is a YTA move but not the one that OP asked for.
20. The kids need to learn mannerism. and OP needs to learn professionalism.
What are your thoughts on this story? What would you do, or how would you react if you were in OP’s position? You know that your feedback means a lot to us; therefore, we want you to share your thoughts in the comment section below. For more such articles, keep visiting our website. Have a nice day!
