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Childcare, Babysitter - who do you have to cover for you if you need it, and how did you find them?
Udosdottir
Member Posts: 26 Connected
Hello everyone,
I am Mum to twins who both have disabilities. In my view they are fairly mild: both can speak and are bright, one of them can walk unaided, but they are less independent than their peers and have personal care needs, and maybe a heightened sensibility as to what they might need.
They are 8 years now, and until now we relied on general babysitters who we found through babysitting networks to get a few hours off. We don't have parents or other family close by who we could rely on. I find it harder now that they are getting older. I see their classmates and their mums covering for each other. Some just take more than just their own child home after school, and they cover for each other like that.
Neither of my children can just go with someone, and I am not sure whether they even have any friends. No-one has ever invited them for a playdate.
Me and my husband we are both working, but generally we manage between the two of us to cover childcare outside school - although there's not much time left for us to spend together. But when appointments are clashing, it's really hard.
And although we do have a babysitter who plays with them for a few hours here or there, and stays with them when they are sleeping for us to slip out for a beer in a pup every now and then, she is working during the day herself, and can neither make time, nor dies she really have the ability to cover for a full day.
Do you have someone who can fully look after your children? How did you find them?
Replies
It can be really difficult when you don't have family support, I'm in a similar situation so can really empathise with how difficult it can be.
Do you know many of the other parents at your children's school? I've found they can be a good resource when you're in a pinch. I have been surprised at the people who have kindly stepped up when we've been stuck for childcare. It might help to start with finding out who your children are friends with and inviting them round to yours to build relationships with different parents.
I'm aware there's also professional networks such as www.childcare.co.uk. I've not used it myself but know other people really rate it. When my older children were young I also discovered that some of the staff at their pre-school offered babysitting services so it can be worth asking around.
I hope some other parents can help with more suggestions for you too.
Scope
If you have a few minutes to spare, we'd appreciate your feedback on our online community.
It was hard at first. Try asking around for recommendations. When I needed a childcare provider, I asked my son’s therapists for advice. How old is your child? I drafted a job advertisement detailing my requirements.
After a few days, I selected a small number of people for a quick further interview at my flat and tests as well. I had a lot of applicants. My hiring decision was based upon personal observation, their responses to my questions, gut feeling etc. I also insisted on a full DBS check and references. Each respondent to my advert had to provide me with at least one trustworthy reference who I or my husband would then contact.
I drew up a contract of employment. The hired candidate had to read it and sign. But I was more concerned with the background check than references.