Hey everyone, I'm hoping for some advice or shared experiences from fellow parents caught in the sandwich squeeze.

Lately, I've been feeling like I'm failing everyone equally. My father recently moved in with us following a decline in his mobility, and his care needs have completely consumed my schedule. I’m constantly juggling part-time work, his medications, physical therapy exercises, and I feel like because of my many many oversights, I’m always playing catch up and can’t do the things I promised my kids I would.

Our weekend outings are either cut short or completely cancelled and the number of times I had to tell my kids “Later, can?” is more times then I can count. I can already see that they have started going to my husband for more things now because they know I cant fufil their request anyway.

They don't understand why Mummy is always rushing, why we can't play like we used to, or why Ah Gong needs so much attention. When I try to explain, I worry I'm either confusing them or putting an unfair emotional weight on shoulders that are way too small.

How have you talked to your young children about aging grandparents and intensive caregiving? How do you help them understand without making them feel resentful toward their grandparents or neglected by you? Would love to hear what words or approaches have worked for your families.