AITA for refusing to babysit because of $10?
A 16-year-old boy, who babysits for his single-mom neighbor Ann, refused to watch her kids (ages 9 and 7) after she withheld a $10 “crisis pay” agreed upon for using an emergency contact. During his last gig, Ann was 1.5 hours late, unreachable, and had driven to the countryside, prompting him to call her sister. When Ann paid him $47 instead of $57, dismissing the crisis, he demanded the $10 before agreeing to babysit again. Ann called him entitled, and surprisingly, his own mom sided with her, leaving him questioning his stance.
This story dives into the struggle of a young worker asserting their worth against dismissive adults. Was the teen’s refusal over $10 a fair stand for respect, or an entitled overreaction? The online community rallies behind him, slamming Ann’s irresponsibility and urging him to hold firm. Let’s unpack this babysitting drama and decide who’s really in the wrong.
‘AITA for refusing to babysit because of $10?’
OP, 16, babysits for neighbor Ann’s kids, Max (9) and Mia (7), for $8.50/hour:
Ann was 1.5 hours late and unreachable, prompting OP to call her sister:
Ann’s refusal to pay the $10 crisis fee violates a clear agreement, as the condition was using an emergency contact, not a specific crisis type. Her dismissal of OP as “just a kid” devalues his labor, undermining trust, per Dr. Amy Edmondson (The Fearless Organization).
Ann’s 1.5-hour absence without contact created a genuine crisis for a 16-year-old responsible for two kids. Dr. Laura Markham notes reliable communication is critical for child safety (Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids). OP’s call to Jenn was prudent.
OP’s refusal to babysit shows mature boundary-setting, vital for young workers. Dr. John Gottman emphasizes supporting teens’ self-advocacy (Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child). His mom’s stance risks harming his confidence.
OP could tell Ann, “I called Jenn for your kids’ safety, per our deal.” To his mom, he might say, “I need your support to stand up for myself.” He should seek gigs at $10-15/hour, standard for two kids.
Here’s what Redditors had to say:
The online community unanimously supported OP, condemning Ann’s irresponsibility and disrespect, criticizing the mom’s stance, and urging OP to charge more or find new clients.
Supporting OP, Condemning Ann’s Irresponsibility:
Urging OP to Charge More or Find New Clients:
![[Reddit User] − NTA most babysitters charge at least $20 an hour for two kids she's getting for less than what mcdonald's would pay you.](https://en.aubtu.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/wp-editor-1759394435206-3.webp)
Questioning Ann’s Excuse and Behavior:
Criticizing OP’s Mom’s Stance:
![quyetx − Kinda sounds like your mom might have a problem with [respecting your work] too.](https://en.aubtu.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/wp-editor-1759394662988-3.webp)
![[Reddit User] − NTA- Stick to your guns. If your mom feels that strongly, she can sit for Ann.](https://en.aubtu.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/wp-editor-1759394664748-5.webp)
Highlighting Ann’s Entitlement:
This babysitting dispute showcases a young worker’s courage in standing up for a small but significant principle. OP’s refusal to babysit over a $10 crisis payment was a justified response to Ann’s disrespect and breach of their agreement, compounded by her dismissive attitude and questionable excuse. The community rightly backs his stance, criticizing Ann’s irresponsibility and urging him to seek better-paying gigs.
OP should discuss his feelings with his mom to gain her support and explore other babysitting opportunities at fairer rates. Do you think OP was right to hold firm over $10, or should he have let it slide for a single mom? How would you handle this unreliable client? Share your thoughts below!
