Those who work shifts: how do you manage child care? I'm especially hoping to hear from moms (or dads) with two or more children (preferably those with more). I have quadruplets and am working toward a degree in nursing or physician assistant (depending on where I get accepted). I'm worried about how I will manage affording and finding child care while working shifts (all hours of day or night). Do you use a nanny? A 24-hour child care center? Family? My kids will be in elementary school when I move out on my own (presently living with parents). I don't want to burden my parents with child care. I don't feel its fair to strap them down like that. My parents are very active and normally travel a lot. It has been a strain on them to have us living here and caring for my kids while I'm in classes.

Any suggestions?

Julie
:grouphug:

I don't work shifts but do have 3 about the same age as one another and know the costs of childcare all too well.

I wonder if you could use daycare during daycare hours and use your parents for the other hours. I was unable to find a person to come to my home. There were a few issues that you will have. They would have to have a vehicle that would fit the carseats, that is very tough with 3 and closer to impossible with 4.... Therefore they have to be old enough to have a good vehicle and experienced with managing 4 children (without one being down for a nap or an older child who can help out)

I looked into the actually Nanny services but the pricing was way way way too high.

I know you don't want to use your parents but I'm guessing when you begin working you won't be one of the highest paid nurses in the area? Also, sleeping at your parents is completely normal for them so it is definitely something to think about. I know, I'm sure totally as a last resort but I say if you have to and you have them and they are able and willing you should.

How old are your parents?

I think that Sue has a great point. I am currently working 3rd, but this is my last night. It has taken LOTS of help from family to make it possible for me to work. I would check into finding someone willing to watch children in their home any shift. If you look hard enough, you just might find the right fit. Good luck!

Thanks everyone! I REALLY appreciate your responses!

My parents are 62 and 60 and are in the best of health, so they are certainly able. I just really don't want to tie them down so much after I move out. I won't be moving out until sometime after I graduate (once I have enough for a down payment on a van and rent money, etc.), and the kids will be in 2nd grade, maybe 3rd by the time I can move out.

I imagine my parents might be willing to keep the kids when I work nights, but I really hate to do it to them. They aren't real thrilled about us being here so long, so I was hoping that when I move out I could be able to plan on not being dependant on them for child care.

UGH! This is so frustrating! It's just GOT to work out somehow!

Julie
:grouphug:

I am a CNA, who works in her own business full time.
Am also going to school for my massage therapy certificate.
I have family that watches my son at night, while I am attending classes.
My hours of work are 8-4:30, during which he now is in summer camp, my hours will switch once he returns to school.

Have worked shifts before which did involve me working 2nd shift. I did that, usually weekends when
my son was with his dad.

I realize this was posted a while ago. Did you finda solution to your problem? I have decided to work 12 hour shifts three times a week instead of 8 hours every day. It works a LOT better and the pay is about the same.