OP, a 20-year-old living with their mother and paying a monthly allowance, doesn’t enjoy kids but agreed to their mother hosting a colleague and her two children (aged 4 and 7 months) for New Year’s Eve.
Shockingly, their mother announced the kids would sleep in OP’s room without asking, prompting OP to refuse due to breakable items and a past incident with the 4-year-old.
Their mother called them narcissistic. Was OP wrong to protect their space? Let’s dive into the details and see what the online community thinks.
This story explores personal boundaries, family conflict, and privacy rights. Did OP go too far?
This story highlights the importance of personal boundaries within family dynamics, especially when OP’s mother made unilateral decisions about their private space. Psychologist Dr. Henry Cloud notes, “Clear boundaries in families foster respect and prevent unnecessary conflict” (Boundaries).
OP’s concerns about their belongings and comfort are valid, especially since they contribute financially, reinforcing their status as an adult in the household. The mother should have consulted OP and considered alternatives, like having the kids sleep with their own mother.
OP could approach the issue more diplomatically, perhaps by suggesting ways to safeguard items. This case underscores the need for communication and respect for personal space.
Here’s what people had to say to OP:
Reddit largely supports OP, emphasizing the mother’s disrespect for not consulting them and the valid concern about damage from young kids. Some criticize the mother’s “narcissist” label, while a few argue OP should compromise for one night. Here’s a roundup of reactions.
Many defend OP’s right to privacy.
![[Reddit User] − NTA. Why can't they sleep in the room with their own mother or your mom's room?](https://dailyhighlight.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/wp-editor-1758792978548-17.webp "20-Year-Old Refuses To Let Kids Sleep In Room, Sparks Mom’s Outrage")
Some question the mother’s choices or suggest solutions.
![[Reddit User] − NTA. You had a very close call; do not tempt your luck.](https://dailyhighlight.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/wp-editor-1758793017536-36.webp "20-Year-Old Refuses To Let Kids Sleep In Room, Sparks Mom’s Outrage")
A few urge compromise.
This 20-year-old’s refusal to let a colleague’s kids sleep in their room, risking their books and collectibles, sparked a clash with their mom’s unilateral plan and harsh words. Was it a justified boundary, or an overreaction?
With Reddit backing their stand and solutions like child-proofing on the table, this saga’s a lesson in respecting personal space. How would you handle unconsulted guest plans? Share your thoughts below!
