Thank you all for your suggestions.

I think this is what I have decided.

They may take two weeks (10 days) at half rate. Must be taken in full week blocks, two weeks notice or they can take it at the same time as my holidays (which they know about in January) where they don't have to pay unless there is a stat. Anything over the two weeks is full pay.

I will include this in my policies for all my families.

I feel comfortable with this. I still get some pay but I get an extra free hand to concentrate a little more on my own kids and the other two dck's. And I will save a little on food and supplies.

Thanks again!