I am very hurt by my weekend sitter. Long Sorry

[parentof1]

I understand that dream..but that was her rate, and when I asked if she felt that was fair she said yes. I already send breakfast with him.

[cfred]

I feel for you in this situation. I can tell you my take from both sides. First, I think her remarks surrounding your child are unfair. Perhaps he is high maintenance. Perhaps it's part of his make up or perhaps, as you said, it's due to the unhealthy foods he's eating. Given what we know about diet in relation to behaviour, I wouldn't doubt it. However, we all know there are ways to say things with diplomacy, tact and kindness. Never in my profession have I ever told a parent that their children are hyper or not worth the pay. That's just not cool. So far as the pay and contract go, she wrote it, she made the request, she should abide by it.

However.......

On the other side of the coin....she has kids through the week? She's tired.....plain and simple. As Dream said, she's likely approaching burn out. I also take a little girl on the weekend. She's been with me since 4 mos of age, used to be a regular daycare kid, now I'm helping mom out. However, wanting to be sure I can get out without fuss, there is no contract. There also is no specific amount of pay. Mom pays me very well, because she knows it's my day off and I'm helping her out. Plus, I also made it clear that it's my day off and after 60 hours with little ones through the week, I'm pretty wiped. There will not be daycare activities. She's welcome to do crafts, play in the back yard, play with the toys...or if she wants to watch iCarly, then so be it. Other than that, she does what we do...even if it's going to my parent's place out of town. Basically, she's part of the family for the wknd and is treated as such....Treats of junk food and all. It's all very, very casual. I will not, can not give families all of myself. I would suspect your provider is just hitting the end of the road with what she can give. I realize she should never have committed to it, and especially in such a formal way, but from her side, I can certainly understand her thinking.

I would suggest trying to look at it from that perspective. Perhaps you could even speak with her and discuss the situation, acknowledging your understanding of her perspective....I know that can be difficult when annoyed. Maybe if things are more flexible and relaxed, it will go better? Otherwise, I would just move on.