Oh the first few years are so exhausting - the interviewing, the stress, the worry, trying to do everything 110% - yes I remember it well. It's a learning curve to get great routines down pat and every year I still change so many things, especially as the ages of the group in care changes.

But I have learned to get the children to help get all the toys cleaned up before they leave, to get the dishes started in the late afternoon so they get done a bit earlier, to sweep if I can while the children freeplay. Whatever you can get done while the children eat or play is helpful or you just feel like there is no downtime at all in your day.

This is NOT an easy job and it's frustrating when other people think you have it easy because you get to stay at home. We run a business and work hard. We just get the perks of the hugs and giggles most days.

I have also learned that I don't have to be 'on' all day long and that it's ok to let the children play and learn with roleplaying and using their imaginations with the toys while I relax a bit or get a chore done in the room like dusting the furniture. Experiment and find what works for you.

Also, I suggest playdates with other home daycare providers at parks or your community centres because being with other adults once a week or so while watching your children play is a lifesaver too.