Not Really a Question Just Jotting down Some Feelings....

I want to tell you that what really matters is how the parents felt about you. The people at your job only think about themselves. It's amazing how the idea of "what have you done for me lately" (like the past 5 minutes) pervades poor management. Try not to let it get you down.

If you can contact these parents whose kids have graduated from your center, tell them that you are looking for a job. Also try to get on in the public school system. If you could work school hours, it would help.

Good luck,
Dawn

have you looked into getting a job in the school system where your children go to school? I work at an elementary school, and when my little guy (he's 3 now) is old enough, he will attend the school I work at.

I think it is fantastic that you are still in contact with the parents! That speaks volumes about you.

With regard to the job hunt...did you follow up with the company after (send a thank you and check on status)? Have many companies in your rotation that you are looking for, be persistent and creative!.

I totally understand your frustration. In today's times for anyone to stay at a job for 8 years is a big deal! Try to continue taking solace in the fact that you did make a difference and the parents recognize that.

I would LOVE to be able to pick my kids up from school everyday. You say you want to be able to continue doing that. The only work from home job I can think of that you might be able to do is child care. You obviously have a ton of experience. At minimum wage plus paying childcare for your kids, you might even only have to watch one or two kids and still make more money.

GL in the job hunt!

I hear ya on having to work to make ends meet. I went part time to be with my boys more after having my second child and it is rough. I do not hardly make enough to really contribute to bills or anything. I basically work to pay for child care on the 3 days that I DO work! I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world though. Is there anything extra you can do to continue to stay home? Coupons, buy generic, cut minutes on the cell phone plan, carpool, go down to one car? Or have you considered a career change? Maybe try to get on at a school like the other mama suggested? My sister works in the cafeteria at a school and is off when her kiddos are. Just a thought. Good luck with whatever you decide and enjoy the extra time with your kids while you can!!

I second Carla's suggestion...can you do childcare in your home? Call up the parents and let them know your situation and plans. Ask them if they know any parents who might need your type of care for their children. It'll be your business so you can be selective in ages and types of children. And rates!

My son went to a Mother's Day Out program and the hours was always between school hours. So anyone MDO teacher who had their own child in school was always available to drop off and pick up before they had to be at work. Can you look into a program like that? Call up some churches and see if they any kind of MDO programs you can apply for as a teacher.

gl!

You DID make a difference. Each day, my son comes home from pre-school and depending on which teacher he had, I will know what kind of mood he comes home in. Mrs. S...great mood, happy boy. Mrs. X...I don't like school, it's boring! It makes a huge difference to families.

Have you considered watching even one or two little ones in your home? With your experience, you could negotiate being able to pick your own up with them along in the car, charge $40 or $50 a day for great, warm, involved child care and make a big difference in the budget...maybe even just three days a week - it can be hard for parents to find PT care and it may work great for you.