Resolved Question

I've been providing childcare in my home for 2 1/2 years. The ages range from 7 months to 4 years old. Next year a couple move on to kindergarten but I'll still have 3 toddlers and 1 infant. I'm considering only having 2 toddlers and 1 infant (2 are siblings) next year to make it better manageable but I really just want to quit and work full time as a freelance web designer. My only reason for not quitting is because I think the children need to be in a home setting for at least another year and they are attached to me. I care for them deeply and the parents love me but managing children all day is stressful and is taking a toll on my health. I'm managing the stress fairly well but as the children get more active it is much more challenging. I need to decide early enough so the parents can adjust but I really don't want to let them down. If I quit, I would have been providing their childcare for 3 years. It doesn't seem fair to them or long enough as their provider.

I worked for an after school program and then one-on-one with an autistic child. Despite the stress having an impact on my health I thought like you and stayed longer "for the sake of the childrens' stability". The result of this approach? Chronic health problems that have led to temporary disability and financial distress. In addition, if you are unhealthy and weak you are *not* doing these kids a favor no matter how attached they are to you.

I suggest you set up a time table to transition out of this role and into something that will provide you with energy. There are so many ways adults can support children without putting our health at risk. I recommend you explore what that would look like for you.