CM giving up parents really upset

[mummybunny]

After much soul -searching, I have decided to give up childminding at Christmas, as I am starting a nursing degree in the new year. This is something that I have always wanted to do, but unexpected circumstances have meant that it is possible to do it sooner than planned. I have also got some additional funding for my place, which was very competitive and it is a great oppertunity.
I have given "My" parents notice last week. I expected them to be upset, but actually some of them were really, really upset, and one of them is not speaking to me. I have been an excellent Childminder and the children that I have cared for I have had for a while. I will miss them too, but this is a great oppertunity for me, and one that I cannot turn down.
I,m just so sad.

What a hard decision for you
How wonderful about the funding

Are you able to help them find a new minder?
It is quite a compliment that they will miss you so much

Not speaking to you!!! Good grief! That's a bit over the top (and very bad behaviour). They should be congratulating you and buying you a very lovely thank you present.

DS3's childminder moved 300 miles away in the summer. I was sad (and actually sad for her because she didn't want to move), but I wouldn't have dreamed of expecting her to put her life on hold for ds3!!!

Comgratulations- and good luck!!

Thats wonderful good luck! it is sad but it is your life and a wonderful opportunity, they are being a bit silly really

I have something similar at the moment as well. It is fantastic that you are doing something that you want to do and I know that it sort of takes the edge off it when they can't be happy for you.

I am going on maternity leave as due on March 10th. I plan to work as long as I am able to, but the parents are all asking when I am starting back etc. One mum has even said that she may send her daughter home to Africa for 6 months if I take that time off.

I feel that it is my time with the new addition, and to be honest much as I like their children, my family have to come first. They have been funny when I have said, and I have to keep reminding them that they need to think about what will happen in Feb when I stop.

It is annoying that they are not happy for you, but as Kayemac has said you have to look at it as a compliment as well.

Good luck!

Message withdrawn

I think this reaction is well over the top. of course it is sad for them to lose a childminder who they are happy with but it is your job. If this parent had changed her arrangements and did not need you anymore, she would not expect you to react like this. Good luck with your studies.

If they continue to not talk to you maybe give them instant notice?!?!

The manager at my daughter's nursery is finishing on Wed after giving us 2 weeks notice. I am absolutely gutted but would never stop talking to her. She has a new job to go to and is happy so I am happy for her. Still gutted for us though.

Thanks guys - I feel much braver about pickup time now. I did feel that this parent was being unreasonable, but as I feel so emotional about the whole thing too, I was finding it hard to be objective about the whole thing.

To twoandabump, may I give you your own words back and say dont be swayed over maternity leave. You wont get another chance to have that first few months again, so take all the time that you can and dont feel guilty.

I shall try to remember that too!!
xx