I feel so guilty!

Starting last week, I've been taking the twins to daycare (same one my toddler goes to) twice a week. But it's not like I'm back to work or anything. I'm a teacher so I'm "off" for the summer. I feel so guilty sending them to daycare 2x a week when I'm home. To hold their spots at daycare until I start work again, I have to pay for two part time positions on top of my toddlers full-time spot. So I figured, ok, since I am paying for it, I might as well take them.

Last week, the first day they went to daycare, I was able to get so much accomplished with housework, shopping, etc. The second day, I took a nap and relaxed and did little housecleaning. I felt so much better and refreshed although I missed them terribly! I kinda felt like a better mom not being so drained and stressed out. But I know I will never get this time back w/ my babies and I'm feeling guilty now. On one hand I feel like I could really use a break, but I'm being selfish for taking it. Maybe I should only take them one day or none at all? I'm conflicted. Should I feel guilty about this? :unsure:

 

I definitely don't think you should feel guilty at all!!! Missing them means you will enjoy them more when you are with them. Plus, you have the time they are gone to get stuff done, so when you are with them, you can concentrate on them!! You'd have to get the housework and everything done anyway, and that could possibly interfere with your interaction time with them.

I think sending them twice a week is the perfect amount of time to be able to miss them, get things done, but still get to spend alot of time with them. Plus, it's good for them to get a little exposure to other kids a couple of days a week.

Enjoy your days "off" and believe that you are doing what's best for them and you, in the long run!!

 

I agree with the pp. I am a teacher, as well, and there have been times I have asked the nanny to come over during the week so I can get some stuff done. Like you, I feel guilty when I don't spend each and every day with them, but sometimes we all just need a day to regroup.

 

I think you should keep bringing them! Two days a week is a nice break for you, enjoy it!

 

I think since you are paying for it you might as well try to utilize the time off!! I can't afford time off and there are days I desperately wish I could have an afternoon to myself!

 

Definitely, if you are paying for it take them! Don't feel guilty. Think of it as "Mommy Mental Health Time" & get lots done so you can enjoy the time you do have with them!

 

You need your rest too. You should not feel guilty about your choice whatsoever. I also agree with pp's that the time spent away from your little ones will make you enjoy your time with them that much more. And it's only two days a week and you're paying for it. Might as well get your money's worth out of it.

 

Thank you everyone for your support. I guess I just needed assurance that I'm not being a crappy mom!

 

Don't ever think you are a crappy mom.

 

I've started taking out twins to "Mother's Day Out" at one of the local churches. It's two days a week, from 8am to 3:30pm....and it's awesome!!!!! We have a 6 year old, too, so it's a good time for us two to hang out. And sometimes he goes to a playdate & it's just me My husband & I will sometimes go to lunch.

You should NOT feel guilty at all!!!! And for me, it makes me a better mom & wife.

 

I agree that since you are paying for it, send them. Think of it this way...if they stopped going completely there may be a harder transition when you do go back to school in the fall. Right now you are doing it to keep their routine as normal for them as possible.

 

If I had to pay for it, I would probably do the same (and would probably feel guilty, too!). But...you seem to be using your time wisely...taking care of housework, running errands, taking care you...all that means the days your twins are home they'll have your undivided and better rested attention! That seems like a win-win to me. Also, the socialization for them is certainly not a bad thing! Enjoy!

 

I totally agree with this!