Why do people always offer to watch your kids when you need them to, but never do?

I always have this problem. My husband and I have been on ONE date since we had our son. ONE in 2 years lol....People just say that to make you think they will and then are always too busy because lets face it, they dont wanna be burdened with a kid that they may not know very well.....

I think it's just something people say usually at the end of an outting where others are gathered around listening to the thoughtful, caring, kind words flowing through the individuals lips. Like they want to be known for offering,... but the time to help out never seems to come. Never convenient for them probably because it was just words never meant to be followed through with. They probably are offended that they were even called upon for their offering. It's best that children aren't left with people like that anyway. You're better off without them. Too many other good people in the world forget the plastics.

Funny, I've never had anyone take me up on the offer. And I would certainly reschedule a manicure if someone asked (knowing that they only ask when truly in need!).

Most people are simply trying to be polite.

It's pretty simple. They're simply trying to be polite towards you. They feel pretty indifferent about you (putting you at somewhat less than someone they'd really want to help out in that way.), but they find your kids to be somewhat charming.

Babysitting is a pretty stressful thing to do. Watching some kids you don't know and don't know how to deal with. You're basically asking them to wing it a few hours. There's probably a reason they don't have jobs and babysitting is a job.

Bad friends? Although it is much easier to say something than do it. I'm one of those friends that say they will do something and I do it. I'm babysitting a friends child right now. It's hard to say why people do it. Maybe when they say that then make sure they know how appreciative you would be if that situation occurred.

once in a blue moon> I think people like to say that but dnt mean it. Everyone on our street adores our kids and they will actually come to our house if they havent seen the kids in a few days

I have run into the same problem. I am raising 2 grandchildren and I run the church nursery on Sundays.

I keep the children of the parents from church all the time but they have never kept mine.

They are just trying to be polite when they say that. They probably never expected you to actually ask them.

for the same reason you say that your friends children are the cutest things you have seen, when you know you're lying!

Friends

They do it to make themselves feel good.