Help what childcare while DH has cancer treatment

[Earlgrey19]

At short notice after DH’s diagnosis I need much more childcare as he and I were going to share the school/nursery runs and after school care since with Covid restrictions. DCs age 3 & 5. I work 4 days per week. Do I get a) full time nanny b) 4 day per week nanny if that’s not too hard c) wrap around care nanny — I imagine v hard to find, d) an au pair. Au pair more affordable but we only have one bathroom/toilet for everyone. Also with everything that’s going on I’m not sure about having to cook for the au pair. I should say DH is not living with us during his treatment, which will be for about 6 months. He’s living with his mum and they’re both shielding together. Thoughts? Feeling stressed!

I have no wisdom to offer but sending you and lots of strength!

Contact your health visitor and your DHs oncology specialist nurse as they may be able to help access support.

Should add, don’t think childminder would work as the nursery and school are too far apart...

Firstly how full on is your husband's treatment? I know you've said 6 months so I'm assuming he's not going to be completely out of it all of the time? Could he still help out with childcare when he can, or his mum? Why is he sheilding away from the family? Has this been advised by his oncologist? Usually they're pretty keen to keep parents with their kids, in my experience.

I'm currently having chemo for a brain tumour. It's at least a year long process including the radio - I started in Sept 19 when my baby was 6 months and he's now 18 months. I'm at the start of my final round and I've also looked after our baby pretty much independently aside from 3 days at the start of each round which my husband takes off work as I am too sick. Honestly, if I hadn't had my baby and mum life to focus on then I think my general health would be so much worse because the chemo would be all encompassing whereas as it is it just fits into my life. Obviously I know it's different depending on the cancer etc but I'd encourage you to consider if he has to be completely away from you all for at least 6 months, because that probably won't be good for you, your kids or him.

LooK for a 4 day temp nanny but say job will be 6mth minimum

Do you want full time childcare as obv before and after school is cheaper but if you need 9-3 daytime then a full time nanny is betteR

Sorry to hear about Dh and hope for a full recovery

There are no au pairs at them moment due to Covid/brexit.
4 day/week nanny housekeeper would be your best option.