Originally Posted by GretasLittleFriends:
Ok, I'm wondering how it is not safe or healthy for a provider to work more than 12 hours. Stay at home moms work usually 16+ hours a day. Military personnel work 24 hours straight, often. There are other professions that work 12-14 hours shifts each day. (Construction, transportation, nurses...) I don't see the big deal having children in one's home for 14 or more hours, especially if you already have your own children.
Just my .02
I think occasionally it is okay. But day in, day out is a quick way to lead to burnout, stress and fatique. It is not healthy for a provider to work 24 hours a day without time off. These things make it unsafe for children. I think the way you described your schedule is different than what I am talking about....you don't have a full house all day, and you do have time without children there. I am referring to providers who have children 24 hours/7 days a week.
Sure, a sahm, works ALL day, but generally with JUST her own children, not a houseful.