"I guess you're not crazy about toddlers. Or even this one toddler in particular-your own nephew. Toddlers are a lot, it's true. They don't stay toddlers forever, though, so try to keep an open mind as he passes through the tiny tornado stage, even if you have to grit your teeth at the same time. It's fun to be an aunt or uncle! It's an easy job with a big payoff."
"But I get it: Right now you're mad and worried. My first piece of advice won't help you this year, as you have already offered to host-but I hope it will help at other family-wide get-togethers while your nephew is still very young and his parents seem to consider these occasions a rare chance for them to take a break from hands-on parenting since there are so many other adults around: Do not offer to host your whole family."
Hosts should set clear expectations that parents supervise and remain responsible for their toddlers during gatherings. Offering to host an entire extended family creates an implicit obligation to care for unsupervised children. When parents treat family gatherings as an opportunity to take a break from hands-on parenting, hosts can protect property and safety by requiring parental supervision or arranging designated childcare. Declining to host future family-wide events is a valid boundary if certain relatives repeatedly refuse responsibility. Creating a child-friendly space, scheduling activities, hiring a babysitter, or assigning a rotating adult supervisor can reduce risk and stress while preserving family relationships.
Read at Slate Magazine
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