Childminding

[maisere]

Hi, I need some help to try and solve a problem.
I understand parents have to work but really I feel my son and dil are taking me for granted.What makes the situation more difficult is we run a family business (vehicle recovery & repairs) our son works with us and dil has a job elsewhere.
Our dil seems to think that because we work for ourselves its simple for me to childmind in school holidays what she forgets is I am at work! I have a job to do too.
I feel so used at the moment, but what can I do ? we need our son to be working too.
I really don't want to upset anyone but I can't go on this way.

Hope you can understand this I can't think straight right now I am so tired and upset.

How often do you babysit for them op ?
My mum helps with childcare couple days per week in order for me to work but I always check in advance with her to ensure it doesn't clash with her other commitments.
I also pay some money into their bills account every month just as token of thanks and because I recognise that my dd spends time there during the week. I also help out in other ways for example drive mum to appointments, swimming, shopping etc and pick up anything she needs from the shops on my way back from work on the days she is at home with my dd .
I would love to hear your opinion from a grandparents view .

Did you guys talk about childcare arrangements before the kids came along ?

We talked about childcare and my dd goes to nursery one day pw to ensure she plays with other children etc but also to make sure we have a back up in case my mum couldn't provide childcare any more.

Sorry about the long post but I hope that provides some perspective and maybe some ideas as to how other families deal with this kind of scenario.
Hugs

I am a gran and while l am happy to babysit any night if needed l would never take on the job of being full time minder even after school..But its your ds who needs to sort this . Tell him its not working as you are too busy. Say you are available in an emergency thats all..Do it now before the long summer holidays come. You are doing nothhing wrong. Your job is as important as theirs. Do they pay you? I suspect not.

Perhaps just be honest with them and saying your finding childcare a bit stressful and have they looked at local childcare facilities that could give dc better social interaction and which enables you to regenerate and enjoy your time also.

My dad looks after my dc every single week for one day but I do give him that day off anytime I can do it so he gets to enjoy his days off also

Don't fall into the trap of being guilted into paying for the childcare!

They chose to have children. It's their responsibility to make this work .