"I Think We'll Let Her Aunts Watch Her This Summer..So We Can Save Some Money"

[morgan24]

I would go with what Jen said. It's short, sweet and to the point.

[Unregistered]

"Sorry..that doesn't work for me...you may feel free to call me a couple of weeks before you require care again but please don't "assume" that the space will still be open...I actually doubt if it will be since while you are busy "saving" money, I need to be busy MAKING it!"

[Meeko]

I once had a mom (who I love dearly) say something similar to me. She told me things were a bit tight money-wise and her husband's teenage sister was coming to stay with them for the summer and she would watch the kids.....but could I please, please, please take them back in the fall.

I asked her this.

What if your supervisor at work came to you and said "Things are a bit tight for the company right now and the boss's daughter is willing to do your job for free. So we want you to go home and sit and wait until we call you back. Unpaid of course. Don't get another job tho', because we want you back at our convenience as soon as the boss's daughter decides to leave."

She turned bright red and threw her arms around my neck and hugged me. She told me she was sooo embarrassed and had not thought of it like that. They paid me full price all summer. Her kids are grown now and we are very close friends. But it made me see that sometimes people just don't think.......so I lay it out there for them!!!

[Unregistered]

I would tell her your plan or offer her to keep her in care to keep her spot. I would also be hesitant to take her back as I am sure the disicpline/routine will be much different when she is at aunties. I have had trouble with this in the past and it usually turns out no matter how much you need the cash not to be worth taking someone back after a break like that.

[mac60]

I offer a 1/2 rate to hold spots for teachers/maternity leaves, etc. I would much rather hold a spot for a family for 2 months and lose some income, than have to advertise, interview, etc. Especially if the family is a good family with no problems. I just don't think it is right for parents to assume we will take them back at their whim.