If you've ever had to terminate care, how have you done it? A written letter, verbally, some other way? How hard was it for you? Have you ever surprised anyone with termination or have parents pretty much known it was coming?

I'm curious as to how others have dealt with termination. I haven't had to do it yet and really dread the day I might have to, which could be sooner than later.

A little backstory - I've got a 16 mth old who's been with me for the past 4 1/2 months. He is an only child who I think seriously gets coddled at home. He is a whiner and needs constant attention. He never likes to be put down and basically wants a bottle all day. He doesn't sleep well or really eat that great. He screams and he's started throwing little fits. Basically he's a handful. Anyway, he is off on holidays and with him gone, this week has been so peaceful. I actually don't dread getting up in the morning and doing my job. It's so nice not to hear crying/whining all day and I'm actually still a happy person at the end of the day!! I honestly dread him coming back since I know he will be used to being home with mom and dad again and getting all the attention. If things don't shape up, I'm seriously thinking of terminating. I just feel bad since I think the mom has tried to form more of a friendship than a business type relationship. I don't want it to come unexpected to her. Ugh, one of the downfall of having a day home, or a business of your own. Can't always be the nice guy (or gal in this case!)