Babysitting may seem stressful upon reflection. Apart from caring for the kids, you’re reliant on the parents arriving on time since you can’t leave the children alone.
OP babysat until 12 a.m., but the parents didn’t return until 5:48 a.m. Concerned, OP called the police when attempts to reach the parents failed. The mom’s explanation was their phones died, and they got lost. OP demanded payment and left. The mom criticized OP for calling the police, suggesting they could’ve relied on emergency contacts or neighbors. However, OP felt 911 was the best option given the circumstances. AITA for calling the police? The parents’ lack of communication and extended absence left OP anxious and feeling abandoned, leading to the decision to involve authorities for the safety of the children.
Scroll down below to read the story in OP’s own words.
1. OP called the police after parents didn’t return home, ensuring the safety of the children. Asks AITA?
2. OP, 23F, babysat a 13-week-old baby boy and his 2-year-old sister from 5 to 11 p.m. while their parents attended a wedding.
3. The evening went smoothly with both children in bed by 7:30 p.m. OP received a text at 10:15 p.m. from the parents, requesting her to stay until 12 a.m.
4. At 12:15, OP hadn’t heard from the parents. She texted but got no response. Anxious, she imagined the worst. She called but still no answer.
5. At 1 a.m., OP felt overly anxious. With no one to call, she checked the city’s Twitter page for updates, worried about the parents’ safety.
6. By 2 a.m., OP had called the parents multiple times with no response. Concerned, she debated calling the police but hesitated to wake the kids.
7. At 5 a.m., OP called the police to report the parents missing. Police arrived at 5:22 a.m. and took a statement, requesting the parents’ numbers. OP stayed with the kids as requested.
8. At this point, neighbors offered to stay with the kids, but OP hesitated due to unfamiliarity. At 5:48 a.m., parents returned, greeted by police.
9. She claimed their phones died, and they were lost after the wedding. OP was furious, calling them irresponsible and demanded payment before leaving.
10. OP clarified the time misunderstanding. Emergency contacts were far away, so they called 911. The wedding was Dad’s friend’s, limiting contact options.
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.
11. OP did everything you could to ensure the safety of the children in a stressful situation. NTA.
12. Calling 911 was the responsible choice given the circumstances.
13. OP’s actions were justified considering the parents’ lack of communication and prolonged absence.
14. NTA – You prioritized the safety and well-being of the children, which is commendable.
15. It’s understandable to feel anxious and seek help when faced with such a situation.
16. OP acted out of concern for the children’s welfare and took appropriate steps to ensure their safety.
17. The parents’ irresponsible behavior left OP with no choice but to seek assistance from the authorities.
18. OP shouldn’t be blamed for the parents’ failure to communicate and fulfill their responsibilities.
19. OP’s actions were a reasonable response to the parents’ unexpected and prolonged absence.
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 Defused. Have a nice day!
