RedditPP Mascot

RedditPP

r/workingmoms • … • u/crazylifestories

Struggling with childcare dilemma

So I have a dilemma that I want to run past you guys.

Backstory

My SIL watches my daughter 4 days a week from 9-2 and I pay her going rate for full time (5 days for 8 hours) childcare. We are really flexible if she needs days off we keep my daughter home. Or if she needs the afternoon off we let her drop her off early. The pay never changes, we pay her even over the holidays or if we go on vacation.

Dilemma

This week my sister is coming in to town for 4 days, 2 of which are days my SIL is scheduled to watch my daughter. Based on things my SIL has said it seems that she feels that she shouldn’t have to watch her if I am taking the days off anyway. We are planing on painting my daughters room and running a bunch of errands which we would be a lot easier without my daughter.

I always feel super guilty about not spending every minute with my daughter but honestly I need a break to get somethings done. My SIL sometimes asks me questions like “Do you even like being a mom?” when I asked if she could do something for my daughter. I just feel like a horrible parent.

Do you guys think that it is unreasonable to expect my SIL to watch her on her scheduled days? Or do you think I should keep her home with us?

Edit: Thank you all for your comments. I read every single one. You guys really gave me the push I needed to look for other care.

I was able to find a place that does all food provided, 7-5:30, 5 days a week, and she only does 6-8 kids. I think this is really going to be great for us.

— 0