AITA for telling my blind sister-in-law she can’t babysit because “what if the baby rolls off the couch”?
Oh boy, do we have a sticky situation for you today! Family drama and AITA go hand-in-hand, but when you throw in disability and childcare, things escalate quickly. Our Original Poster (OP) found themselves in a difficult conversation with their sister-in-law, leading to a major family rift. It's a classic case of good intentions possibly paving the road to a very uncomfortable place.
This isn't just about whether someone *can* do something, but about perceptions, trust, and sensitive communication. Navigating family dynamics is tough enough without the added pressure of a vulnerable newborn and differing opinions on what constitutes 'safe care.' Let's dive into the details and see if our OP is truly the villain here, or just a worried parent.

"AITA for telling my blind sister-in-law she can’t babysit because “what if the baby rolls off the couch”?"






This AITA post drops us right into a classic dilemma where genuine concern clashes with potential insensitivity. On one hand, OP's immediate instinct to protect their 4-month-old baby is incredibly primal and understandable. The
The Verdict Is In! Here's What The Internet Said:
The comments section for this one was, as expected, a real mixed bag. There's a strong contingent arguing NTA, emphasizing that a parent's first priority is always their child's safety, regardless of the relative involved. Many users pointed out the legitimate difficulties in supervising a quickly-moving infant without full vision, citing specific scenarios like choking or falls. They often suggested alternative ways Sarah could help, showing support for her while validating OP's concerns.
However, a significant number of commenters came down squarely on the YTA side, accusing OP of ableism and a lack of empathy. These users highlighted Sarah's proven independence and capabilities, suggesting OP underestimated her and jumped to conclusions. They felt OP's phrasing was particularly harsh and humiliating, advocating for a more open conversation about specific precautions rather than a blanket refusal. The sentiment leaned heavily on the idea that disability doesn't equal inability.





This AITA really highlights how quickly intentions can be misconstrued, especially when sensitive topics like disability and childcare safety intersect. While OP's parental instincts are valid, the phrasing could have been handled with more grace and a willingness to explore solutions. The path forward likely involves open, honest communication, possibly with a mediator, focusing on practical precautions rather than blanket assumptions. Ultimately, ensuring Leo's safety is paramount, but so is maintaining respectful family relationships. A delicate balance indeed!
