How long to accommodate a family?

[bright sparks]

Honestly I think I'd like to replace them, I just don't want to work these long hours, I have two kids of my own who don't get much alone time with me. It just isn't working out. Do you think it would be reasonable to ask for extra fees and five days a week?

I don't get the impression this is about the money. You said yourself that you don't want to work the long hours. Although yes, you should be financially compensated for the long day you work, raising your rates or charging for that extra time doesn't deal with the burn out and the long hours. It actually sends the message to this family that it is acceptable behavior to drop off earlier than agreed and pick up later than agreed as long as they pay for it.

The only way to prevent burn out beyond taking regular time off, is to have maximum hours at a set rate. Extra fees are charged as late fees, but as a penalty, not an additional service. I would hand them 2 weeks written notice of an amendment to your contract stating the contracted hours per day and include the cost. Include that this is not flexible, that late fees apply should they not collect on time, and drop off times should be stuck to unless prior arrangement has been agreed on by both parties, or it will be grounds for immediate termination. If they do not agree to it then the two weeks notice of this change will apply as two weeks notice of termination.

Take control of the situation immediately otherwise this will continue. Burn Out will still occur regardless of your pay cheque and the long days will also stay the same regardless of what you charge. Shorten your hours, increase your rates and give them an ultimatum. Yes they pay you on time, of course they do as they have a good thing going here as they are able to manipulate you and it appears that they think you work for them while they are calling the shots by dropping off and picking up as they please.