AITA And also my friends for not wanting to babysit our other friend’s child?

Picture a lively group chat buzzing with plans for a weekend getaway, only for one friend to drop a bombshell: “Who’s watching my kid?” That’s the reality for a tight-knit group of five women in their twenties, now grappling with their friend Lilly’s expectations. Two years ago, Lilly chose to become a single mom, despite her friends’ gentle warnings about the challenges. Now, her demands for free childcare are testing their bond, leaving everyone frustrated.

The tension is palpable, like a coffee date gone sour. Lilly believes her friends should step up as a “village” to help raise her child, while the others feel her decision shouldn’t dictate their lives. It’s a clash of loyalty and personal freedom, sparking a debate that’s as relatable as it is divisive.

‘AITA And also my friends for not wanting to babysit our other friend’s child?’

Lilly’s story is a classic case of mismatched expectations in friendships. Dr. Irene S. Levine, a psychologist and friendship expert, notes in her blog, The Friendship Blog, “Friendships evolve, and major life changes like parenthood can strain even the closest bonds if boundaries aren’t clear.” Lilly’s assumption that her friends should co-parent overlooks their own priorities, creating resentment.

The conflict reflects a broader issue: the societal pressure on women to support each other’s choices unconditionally. A 2021 study from the Pew Research Center found that 60% of single mothers report feeling judged for seeking help, yet Lilly’s approach—expecting rather than asking—shifts the burden unfairly. Her friends, focused on careers and freedom, aren’t wrong to set boundaries.

Dr. Levine advises, “Open communication is key. Friends should express needs and limits honestly to avoid guilt or obligation.” Lilly could benefit from seeking mom friends who share her experiences, reducing reliance on her non-parent friends. For the group, discussing boundaries calmly can preserve their bond while respecting individual choices.

Ultimately, Lilly’s frustration stems from the harsh realities of single parenthood, but her friends aren’t obligated to fill the gap. Offering occasional help as a gesture of kindness, rather than a duty, could balance empathy with personal freedom. Clear boundaries, as Dr. Levine suggests, ensure friendships thrive despite life’s changes.

Here’s the comments of Reddit users:

The Reddit crew didn’t hold back, serving up a spicy mix of support and shade for Lilly’s situation. Here’s the raw scoop from the online crowd:

These Redditors rallied behind the friends, calling Lilly’s expectations unfair while sympathizing with her struggles. Some suggested she seek mom friends for support, while others roasted her for treating her child like a group project. But do these fiery takes capture the full picture, or are they just stoking the drama?

Lilly’s story shows how quickly friendships can hit a rough patch when life choices diverge. Her friends’ refusal to babysit isn’t cold-hearted—it’s a stand for their own paths. Yet, Lilly’s loneliness as a single mom tugs at the heartstrings, raising questions about where friendship ends and personal responsibility begins. Striking a balance is tough but possible with honest talks. What would you do if a friend expected you to share their parenting load? Share your thoughts below!