How to plan childcare for an uncertain future?

[bluebean]

Like many people I rely on my wonderful wonderful parents to help out with childcare ( two days out of the four I work, fab CM the other two). But my Mum is now undergoing chemo for the second time in a year and I just don't know if she'll be able to carry on. I'm on mat leave at the moment, so this isn't really an issue until I return early next year.

I wondered, how have others dealt with similar situations?

I'd be interested to hear from CMs etc, what would your take on this be? It seems unreasonable to expect a CM to hold a place when I don't know if I'll need it or not.

I've spoken to my CM and she's doesn't have places for my 2 DC at present.

I also feel horribly guilty for even thinking about this. Sorry if I'm rambling - it's just so hard to plan and it's making me anxious.

Sorry to hear about your mother, I hope all goes well.

Is there a possibility your childminder could apply for a variation for a sibling? This would allow her to up her numbers in that age range.

I didn't know that was an option!

Thanks for the info gardenpixies, I'll ask CM.