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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Too much childcare?

2 replies

SunnyCrab · 06/11/2025 13:29

Wanted some advice from more seasoned mums who’ve lived through toddler years. I am currently on mat leave with DC2. I will be going back to work next September and have signed up DC2 to join DC1 at amazing childminder three days a week (Tu,Wed, Thurs). I work 3.33 days a week(Wed-Fri) and in-laws will have children one day (Fri). Childcare is covered by funded hours as it is term-time only - my mum comes and stays during half terms to help. I have not asked work whether I would be able to change working days to relieve in-laws of their day but I know childcare days cannot be changed to fit my working pattern.

This means I will have one day my children go to a childminder and I will be home. I think it may be helpful to prepare meals, clean, exercise etc. Things I won’t be able to do as easily with a 1 and 2 year old. Worried I’ll be missing my children though as the reason I applied to work part time was to spend more time with children! I’d love to hear people’s opinions as this feels like an unconventional set up!

YABU - you can’t send your kids to childcare when you’re at home. Reduce days at childminder.

YANBU - a day to take care of the household sounds like a dream and will benefit the whole family.

OP posts:
FunMustard · 06/11/2025 13:35

When my twins were little and I had my third, I sent them to nursery still. It was SO hard trying to get anything done at home, especially when still working (similar pattern to you).

Do it, and you can always change your mind later. It's easier to cancel a day than to add one on. But I think you'll all benefit.

Edit: And don't forget, you can always spend time with then when they're with your in-laws, or just not send them on those days.

blankcanvas3 · 06/11/2025 13:50

My youngest go to nursery and I’m a SAHM. I like the break and I get chance to do stuff round the house

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