Delimma:

When I was pregnant with my first child I found myself in a similar situation. I got a job at a daycare. This arrangement was perfect. I had free daycare. Plus the income. I really would look into this as an option for you.

You know when I was going to a local gym there was lady there who had five kids and she worked in the gym daycare. I think that could be an option because the hours aren't too bad at most gyms and each kid will probably only stay an hour or so, so it might not be as stressful as having the same kiddos all day. Of course I don't know the pay range or anything, but I know that the lady I knew got to bring her kids with her for free and she worked in the morning until like noon and had the afternoon free and then didn't have to be back up at the gym until like 4 or so whenever she worked in the evening. Best wishes!

Running one or two home-based businesses solve this issue for some moms. Also, finding a teen or young college student who can be your mother's helper while you work at home or are out for a few hours during the week, at a much reduced cost over traditional child care, eases the sticker shock of childcare. College sororities, high school assistant principals and counselors usually are a good source for who's offering to babysit.

Good for you for looking for other options and other game plans.

If you are married is it possible for you to stay home during the day and work a 2nd / 3rd shift after hubby is home to take care of the kids?

There are people who take care of children in their home and they tend to be less expensive than a traditional day care - is there someone in your area that does this? Ask your neighbors, teachers, people at church, etc - somebody always knows somebody.

You don't say how old your child (children) are, but if they are in school, is it possible for you work part-time while they are in school?

T.,

Sorry for your stress. Most daycare centers offer free child care for employee's children. Plus, you'd be at work with your children each day.

Also, I have a friend who in the same situation began to keep several children in her home with her other children. I believe if you only have a few in the home, there are no certification requirements. Something you'd want to look into, but even helping 1/2 day a few days a week would help bring in funds!

Good luck - prayer always helps!!

J.