I too worked in center for 5 years before doing home care. I would say the transition was easy but the whole having a backbone is difficult. I like to encourage my parents at every given opportunity so that when they break a rule or I have to change something it's not as ugly a confrontation.

The different ages thing is tricky, I would make sure you have the older kids help. They can put activities away on their own and they can also initiate activities on their as well. I try and let them be creative, with home care you don't HAVE to stick to your schedule (although I would highly suggest trying) and that means more spontaneous learning can take place.

All in all it's not much different than center care if you think of it this way: you are the director, maintenance, lead, assistant, cook, and floater. Put on the "hat" necessary for that situation. If that made sense at all.

CONGRATS! And have fun with it!

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