I used to work in a daycare centre that catered to children with special needs. That wasn't the intentions of the daycare it was a daycare centre that catered to young families in need (such as single teen mothers) or families with special needs. While the daycare centre part was running, the board room had courses for the families to assist with their special needs, from cooking to mental health. It seemed most of the children in care had special needs whether they be physical, cognitive or emotional. I was one of the preschool teachers and had a group of 8 children. I can honestly tell you they were the hardest group of children I have ever had. I came home emotionally and physically tired and physically bruised or bitten most days. That was 7 years ago, and I lasted 2 months in that daycare centre. I went back to home daycare and haven't worked with a special needs child since.

However, I have a space and I have interviewed a few families but just don't get that special vibe from any of them, plus my heart isn't in to interviewing, but the space does need to be filled and I'm sure the perfect family isn't going to fall on my lap. When I received this beautifully written email from this family, I couldn't say no to the interview. I tried everything to force myself to do it, wrote email after email, and I couldn't send them, I even sat on the emails for days trying to force myself to send it. All I could think about was how already I was emotionally attached to this family (I have been rather emotional lately) and that this family might be the perfect family for me, so I couldn't turn them away. I told them I would like to learn more, but I couldn't guarantee to accept the child.

There is so much to think about! Cfred, the child is working with therapists, so I would have to learn how that would interfere with daycare. New territory for me, didn't even think about the therapists coming to daycare.

PlayFeltPlus I am worried about the physical aspect of things. I am not prepared to be carrying around a child who lacks mobility. But it is my understanding the child is small and already scooting. I do have a magic bullet, but I like your suggestion to have the parents send food until I learn and feel comfortable with everything. I had never even heard of food aversion until this family emailed me.

I've started a list of questions to ask during the interview. I just want to go into the interview with as much information as possible so I can make an informed decision and what is best for my family as well.