Ugh......

[boygirlgirlboy]

Hi everyone!! I've been a member of Daycare Bear for awhile, and read these forum boards religiously everyday!! All I can say is AMAZING advice and support!!
It's now my turn for some advice....or maybe I'm just looking for someone to say it's okay
I've been operating my day home for 11 years. Right now I'm lucky to have four of the most amazing families I could ask for. Unfortunately a change in my son's activity schedule means I'm going to have to give notice to two families because of their hours. Ugh....I feel just terrible. My husband and I have had in depth conversations and financially it won't affect us. My son is thrilled about his new opportunity and I have a wrench in my gut because of what it will do to these families. I've been open with them as to what's been going on, however, I don't think they ever thought it would affect them. I'll be giving them 8 weeks notice, so definitely enough time for them to find someone amazing!! I just want the very best for them, they are really great people. I have to put my family first, right??
Anyone ever in a similar situation? How did the family react?
Thanks!!

[Momof4]

Welcome to the forum finally after admitting to hanging around for a while, lol. If you have 11 years experience you should be teaching us lots of things!

You are giving these families lots of advance notice. 8 weeks is more than generous, don't feel guilty. We have all had families leave us unexpectedly for one reason or another, in my case it was a family member who opened a daycare, and a move to another city. Both were golden families that I adored of course. The bad ones never leave early!

Anyway, I understood because these families had to do what was best for them. We also have to do what is best for us and our families. Don't feel bad at all. You will be happy after the change and it shows in your post how much you adore your son.

[Monday 2 Friday Mama]

Exactly what Momof4 said - keep it polite and professional, but do what is best for you and yours. If the shoe were on the other foot, you know that the families would look out for their own crew in the same way.

[boygirlgirlboy]

Thanks Ladies!! Well it's done! Notice has been given and I must say, I think I can actually breathe this morning!! Things went well, both families reassured me they would do the same thing if they were in my shoes.
After 11 years, I've finally decided to open my day home to teacher's only. I'm also the mom of four fabulous children and being able to give them 100% of myself during their school breaks has me REALLY excited!!
Thanks again!!