Childminders - what lessons have you learnt?

[MUM2BLESS]

I started childminding in Sept 08. Since then so much has taken place. I have had challenges and also joyful times.

I have learnt in that time that its not just about making lots of money, even though it pays the bills etc, cannot complain about that. You have to ensure that you have time to do your paper work, family time and time for yourself.

I got to a stage in 2009 when I was so busy it was at times, overwhelming. Seeing so much that needed doing in your own home but really too busy to do it, that was not a nice feeling. At times being so tired that it became uncomfortable. Wanting to make changes but you have contracts that you have signed with the parents. My own kids wanting my attention but I had to share myself with so many.

Things has now changed and I feel so much better. I am no longer starting at 07.00 and finishing at various times, sometimes into the evening. I can now spend quality time with my own kids and also with the minded kids.

What has been your experience and what changes did you make or want to make in 2010. Would love to hear from you!

I decided to offer term time only contracts with occasional emergency/ad hoc care in the hols but only on mon and tues.

This made it so much better for my own family, I only work for 3 and a half days minding 3 children so I earn a decent wage.
I don't start till 7.45am and finish by 5.30.

The other change was I completed my nvq3 and now can do emergency nanny work, proxy parenting etc which pays much better and tends to be in the evening when my children are in bed, admittedly I don't see much of my husband but I paid for a xmas holiday and we all had 2 weeks off at xmas so its worth it.
I intend to cut back even more on childminding and do more at the weekend evenings running creches etc.

I think I would like to do less hours or at least be finished by 5pm and not do dinners and collection/ drop off but as things are I will carry on as I am for at least the next 9mths to 1 yr. By then dd2 will be at school I think it would be nice if we could afford for me to finish work then pick my dc's up from school so they're not having to share that time and then to be able to have dinner as a family. Looking at our finances though it will probably not happen.

Thanks for your replies. Anyone else want to share what they have learnt?