AITA for asking our babysitter to set alarms when she sleeps?

A 34-year-old dad, juggling a demanding medical career and raising three children, is frustrated after discovering that his 16-year-old babysitter fell asleep on duty during an overnight shift.

The introduction highlights his concern for his children’s safety and questions whether it’s realistic to expect a young, inexperienced caregiver to handle such responsibilities. It sets the stage for a broader discussion on modern parenting challenges, where high childcare expectations collide with the practical realities of youth and inexperience.

‘AITA for asking our babysitter to set alarms when she sleeps?’

Dr. Susan Parker, a child safety and family dynamics expert, states, “Ensuring that a caregiver remains alert—especially with an infant in the house—is not an unreasonable request. While it’s important to communicate expectations kindly, the safety and well-being of the child must come first.” (source: [​]) Dr. Parker explains that a babysitter, regardless of age, has a duty to maintain vigilance, particularly if an alarm from the baby monitor fails to wake her.

“Using additional reminders like setting alarms is a practical step to prevent potentially dangerous situations,” she adds. Dr. Parker acknowledges that the method of delivery matters. “Although the OP’s approach might have come off as blunt, the underlying concern is valid.

It might have been more effective to have a pre-arranged discussion about expectations for overnight care, rather than addressing it in the moment after an incident.” Nevertheless, she concludes that prioritizing the child’s safety is paramount, and asking a babysitter to set alarms is a reasonable precaution.

Here’s how people reacted to the post:

reveal a resounding consensus that the dad’s expectations are misplaced. Many redditors argue that hiring a teenager for overnight babysitting is inherently flawed, suggesting that if constant wakefulness is required, an adult professional should be on the job. The consensus? While the concern for the children’s safety is understandable, the solution lies in better hiring practices and smarter use of technology, not in setting alarms for a minor.

Ultimately, this story isn’t just about a babysitter’s nap—it’s a broader commentary on modern parenting dilemmas. Balancing professional responsibilities, ensuring quality childcare, and making ethical hiring decisions are all part of a complex puzzle. While technology can offer temporary fixes,

the core issue remains: are we expecting too much from those who aren’t developmentally ready for such tasks? What’s your take on this scenario? Would you opt for a tech upgrade or reexamine your caregiver choices? Share your thoughts and experiences below—let’s get the conversation started!