i have a feeling I have a little less freedom than you guys when it comes to some things: lunch time for example, I would LOVE to serve "family style" but if I do, I am required to throw away ALL leftovers (due to contamination?). not sure, anyway, this way I have to leave all the food on the stove or counter and YES, get up for every little thing every time a child needs it, however alot of times I will ask them to wait for a bit, until i have a good amount of portions to retrieve or at least until I have taken a few more bites, ensuring I also get a little to eat, while catering to all these "sweet little devils ) just tends to run a little more on the stressful side most days for lunch. I think my biggest issue is the "whiney" way everything is asked for, Thats why as much they can do independantly the happier I am, I have small pitchers they use to pour their own water, I only refill the pitcher, will NOT pour for them, lots of spills but thats OK, cuz they are learning doesnt bother me much. Perhaps thats just my "tired" time of day, you know when you hit a wall of "UUUGH!" maybe thats why it all gets under my skin so easy!!!? who knows.