my mom wants to help out, but I am not so sure

[Anonymous]

Some thoughts/questions for you and your mother:

This isn't a good idea if taking care of your kids is her retirement plan. She needs to retire, figure that out, and then decide if childcare is what she wants.

What's best for your kids?

Don't give up your current care without some trial runs with your mother. Neither of you know if this is sustainable for her....or you.

What's your backup plan if you quit before and after care and your mother gets sick? Has an injury? Wants to go on vacation or visit with friends? Or has to take care of your father if he gets sick?

Can your mother be your backup plan for sick kids? School holidays that you don't have off? Or take them for a few hours on the weekend so you get a break? Rotate the kids through special one-on-one grandma time?