MIL issues. Am I wrong?

Personally, I don’t see the issue and do think you are wrong. People spend quality time differently, she obviously prefers one on one time with him that way. She may not be able to fund trips either. Even the easy activity you suggested can be costly. Does your son enjoy his time with her? If so whats the issue? Make sure he has his favourite toys or something to take with him there and they can play together or do that I only had a relationship with one Nan growing up we very rarely did any trips out ect. I had the best time with her!!

@Becky her and her husband both work full time jobs and are able to fund simple activities. My mom is retired and lives on a fixed income, but still finds family activities that don’t include sitting in front of a tv for the weekend. I believe if there’s a will, there’s a way.

I don't think there is anything wrong with going nowhere, kids shouldn't need to be constantly entertained outside the house to enjoy and bond with family members as long as he isn't upset by his time there and isnt being ignored whilst sat in front of the tv, I personally see no issue.

For me, any amount of screen time makes my toddler MEAN so this would be an absolute no go. If it's not negatively affecting him then I wouldn't be too worried about it unless he seems sad or bored about going

Not to say you’re wrong for how you feel but I don’t see the problem..nothing wrong with not doing something all the time. A relaxing weekend at grandmas sounds fine. Not everyone is comfortable outside with a tiny human lol my dad is fairly young and is still nervous to be with my daughter outside by himself. Kids don’t need to be stimulated every second of everyday

Hi. I hate my MIL and I totally get it. Putting in the effort to do what your kid needs shouldn’t revolve only around the TV. If she has toys and other things to keep him stimulated, that’s one thing. My MIL refuses to take my kid outside of the house because she simply doesn’t want to.. You’re the mother and you know what’s best for your son, if you try to explain that he needs more external stimuli, that may encourage her to try. Maybe finding a list of “free” activities in the area may help… Best of luck

Yeah no. I don’t do screen time with my daughter because I refuse to have an ipad kid and it’s just not necessary especially at her age. I made it very clear to my mom and she respects it even though my 4 year old sister is an ipad kid. She takes them to the park, farmers markets, libraries, stores, etc. Entertaining a child does not have to cost money. They can have a water day outside, play in the mud, explore nature, sensory bins. there’s 0 excuse why your child should be sat infront of a tv for an entire weekend. I’m sorry.

If you need the break could you try suggesting free activities? Like going to the park, farmers market and things of that sort, its ways for him to get out that don’t require them to do much. I understand your pov because I don’t let my son spend all day in front of a TV but it does you more good by finding things for them to do than worrying about things that they don’t which takes away from your break.

I dont see the issue tbh. You guessed she may be overwhelmed taking him out alone and that’s valid. She may very well be and chooses to spend time with him at home. Don’t compare family to family it’ll never leave a nice picture. Is she treats him with love and respects boundaries if let her spend her time with him how she sees fit. You may see your son as being under stimulated there but as he gets older he may see it as a safe and calming space to relax at grandmas 🫶🏻

I don’t see the issue. When I drop my kids off at grandmas, it never occurred to me that she should be taking them anywhere. I’d be more anxious tbh about my kids being out and about without me. I prefer to leave the out of the house activities to hubby and me. When they go to grandmas or any other family members houses, I want them home and indoors and where I know they’re safe!

I do completely understand why you’re feeling this way, you want your son to enjoy him time. But it’s important you don’t stop him from forming relationships with his family. If he tells you he doesn’t wanna go or he gets bored etc then I’d revisit the issue, try prompt more activities but he might enjoy just spending some 1-1 time at home with her! People show love differently and I’m sure she will still make it fun for him. I agree with others too, having a child that is constantly wanting to do things is hard work, if he can enjoy the small things in life that’s so good for his development.

I don't really see the big deal tbh. Watching a movie or something with a child can be lovely quality time together! Especially as it's not everyday i don't see the problem

You’re not wrong to want meaningful engagement for your son during his time with his grandma. It seems like you’re looking for a balance between family bonding and ensuring he has enriching experiences, especially since you’re seeking a break. If your mother-in-law tends to offer less stimulating activities and your son spends time passively watching TV, it’s natural to feel concerned. If your suggestions are met with resistance, it could indeed be that she finds it overwhelming to handle him alone. If so, maybe gently addressing it by offering to support her with ideas she feels comfortable with, or suggesting shorter outings, could help bridge the gap. Still, your concern about under-stimulation is valid, especially since your son benefits from more active, engaging experiences when he’s with your mom. It’s about finding a balance that respects both grandmothers’ involvement while ensuring your son’s well-being. How does your husband feel about this?