So, I'm a babysitter now?

Question

One of my superiors (I mean, VERY high up) has the habit of bringing her 5 year old twins to the office from time to time while she makes calls and ties up loose ends (she often works remotely). They're never here for more than a couple of hours, but when they are here, it seems I am expected to supervise. I have too much going on to spend my day chasing after these children, and making sure they're not hurt (not exactly a child-friendly office) AND, I don't remember seeing the word 'babysitter' in my job discription. It's been happening with increasing frequency, and I want to tear my hair out.

Is there a way to approach this without losing my job?

Answer 1

yes

Answer 2

It's a tough one because she obvioulsy would be able to get rid of you if you tick her off. Is it possible to not be around when she shows up? Or can you palm the kids off on someone else? Maybe you "need" to interupt her frequently with the little darlings. People like this can be very oblivious to how their actions affect others and I'm sure she's "sure" what she has to do is much more important than what you have to do, so you should watch the kids, and they're her kids so the must be adorble and no trouble at all for you to handle. I think you just need to buck up and deal with it as best you can. It could make or break your job.

Answer 3

Oooooooh...that's a tough one ..I once was told by a Judge Judy wanna be that I have an answere for every thing...she was wrong....I don't think there is any way you can get out of it without pissing off the boss...remember she is also a mother and a career mother and may take it the wrong way even though I totally agree you shouldn't have to play baby sitter..hey maybe you could jokingly tell her your going to have to start charging her for baby sitting....good luck!

Answer 4

I would just tell her, or another higher up that you aren't very "kid savvy" and are uncomfortable being charged with keeping an eye on them. Make it seem that it is more out of concern for the kids than out of your own annoyance at the situation. Ugh, I really hate when people pawn their kids off on me. I didn't pop them out so please don't make ME chase them around. its so rude...

Answer 5

Duct tape.

Duct tape fixes 'most anything, excepting maybe ducts.

Tape 'em to the overhead, a cubicle partition, each other, a landscaping tractor, their mother - Whatever seems most convenient at the moment.

OK, so, seriously now... I'm uncertain that there's a really good way to approach this, short of simply telling her that you're having a hard time getting your work done with the kids around, and maybe she might bring coloring books next time, and set them up in a conference room?

Answer 6

Be direct with her, it is the only way. And she should certainly know better. That is no a viable reason to lose your job.

Answer 7

I like Foolish Pleasure's ideas.  It is an interesting take on the situation.  However, if you really don't want to watch these children (and you would be totally justified in feeling this way) you'll have to take a gamble:  sometimes putting your foot down in an unfair situation makes a person back off or lash out.  If you confront her, or complain to HR (which is what I would do) she'll either find better arrangements, or arrange to get rid of you.  Either way, you won't have to deal with her kids anymore...if you get fired, you have a real legitimate unemployment claim, and a fairly amusing story to tell at job interviews.

If you do approach HR about this situation, don't sound like a complainer.  Instead, focus on how you are unable to complete your work with this additional responsibility, and how you are concerned that the office isn't a place that the children are safe playing in.

Answer 8

Rachel, you really need to find a new job!  Tell your superior to have Bulimia girl watch them!

LOL - No, but maybe if you tell her to have Bulimia girl watch them, she'll hire a REAL babysitter instead of having you do it for free!

Answer 9

Go to h.r. if it is a big company.

If it is a small company you are probably just stuck.  

Call the Department of Labor for your State and ask them.

Answer 10

get out your job description and be sure that there is no mention of childcare in it.  if you feel that you are being asked to misuse your work time, speak with your manager or HR department.  be sure to document all interactions.

Answer 11

Tell her you are a s*x offender and are court ordered to stay away from kids.

Answer 12

You have to ask yourself if it is more that you don't want to watch the kids, or that she doesn't seem to respect your place in the heiarchy of things? If it's the former, ask if you can take them out for a treat, fill them with sugary things, and hope the sugar high kicks in when she is home with them.  If it's the latter, ask for a raise, since you have added one more skill to your resume. Can you take the time to read them a book, or get them coloring books, and crayons? Ask if you can subscrie to Highlights for children with the mother's money and permission. There are ways to keep children amused and quiet, but it really requires some patience and planning.  Buy them a gerbil, a fish in a fish bowl, or bubbles. I've never known a kid to not like bubbles.  Thy aren't too messy and they are fun. All at the mothers expense of course.