I’m a retired teacher and a widow. I have a son, who is married, and from them, I have a grandson, whom I absolutely adore.

My DIL hired a nanny to help with my grandkid while she and my son worked long hours. They claimed, “She’s the perfect nanny ever.” But I soon noticed that something was off. I often visited and had a key to their home, given to me by my son.

Usually, I called and informed them whenever I was planning to come over. One day, I decided to do a surprise check. I walked in to find my 2-year-old grandson playing, alone, near the top of the stairs. My blood boiled when I found the nanny, who they liked so much, fast asleep on the couch, with the TV blaring loudly.

I shook her awake, and she was not even apologetic, claiming my grandson was way too energetic and drained her out, and she’d just fallen asleep a few minutes ago. I did not believe her; she even had sleep creases on her face.
© Raniro Coelho / Pexels

Meanwhile, my grandson was roaming around with a full diaper and a messy face. I fired her on the spot, and she left in a huff.

In the evening, when my son and DIL came home, they were fuming. My DIL accused me of interfering in her household and told me that I had no right to fire someone they had hired. They even demanded the house key back and told me I wasn’t welcome to come over without informing them beforehand.

To top it, they also hired the same nanny back, refusing to listen to my explanation. I went home, my heart heavy.

It’s been a week, and I haven’t reached out to them, but neither have they. I just don’t know what I did wrong, and how do I fix it? I miss my grandson. Can you please advise me what to do now?

Thank you!