Update.....not such a good one :(

[apples and bananas]

I would meet with the mom and discuss what her immediate needs are. As much as I understand it's a rough situation and I know you feel horrible for the family, you still have to run your business.

I would start posting for drop in... moms wanting to socialize etc. Or a temporary child. Sometimes they're out there.

I would also take a good hard look at my budget and decide what I need to make things work. Then make my decision on the family from there.

But make sure the family knows that you are concerned about their child, but they need to be aware of your business. You'll help them in any way that you can help them. But there are always limits.

I hope the little one gets better soon.

[mommyof2princesses]

Problem is how much of this can be managed at your local hospital and are the specialized feeding clinic services available where you live. The fact they are considering transferring her to another hospital makes me think that the problems are out of the scope of the hospital where she is now.

The occupational therapist here isn't comfortable with treating her and the doctor wants her at a hospital with more expertise, so either Toronto Sick Kids or Hamilton McMaster.

[mommyof2princesses]

I would meet with the mom and discuss what her immediate needs are. As much as I understand it's a rough situation and I know you feel horrible for the family, you still have to run your business.

I would start posting for drop in... moms wanting to socialize etc. Or a temporary child. Sometimes they're out there.

I would also take a good hard look at my budget and decide what I need to make things work. Then make my decision on the family from there.

But make sure the family knows that you are concerned about their child, but they need to be aware of your business. You'll help them in any way that you can help them. But there are always limits.

I hope the little one gets better soon.

Good idea about the drop-ins/temp dck, thanks Will be having a chat with parents either end of this week or the week I get back from my vacation.

[torontokids]

I personally would advertise for the spot. It can take some time filling a vacancy and the reality is that you don't need to sign a contract right away, just get the word out there. Advertise for a September start and see who inquires.

[Lou]

I would definitely have a chat with Mom to find out what her plan is as far as childcare in concerned. I know "business is business", but if it were me in this special circumstance (hospitalization ) I would charge for 50% of my regular fees to hold the spot. Of course, this all depends on if you can afford it or not. Have a talk with Mom first after a few days (let everything sink in a process for her too, what an upheaval for their family!) and go from there.