21 Childcare Burnout Tips to Recharge and Love Your Job Again
Toys are everywhere. Parents are late—either for pickup or payment. One of your littles is always crying. Your space feels uninspiring. You have no idea what to teach this week. A certain family stresses you out. And to top it all off, you’re exhausted.
Burnout happens to even the most passionate childcare providers. Running an in-home daycare is rewarding, but it’s also demanding. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it doesn’t mean you don’t love your job—it means you need a reset.
Here are 21 ways to recharge and combat childcare burnout.
Signs of Burnout in Childcare Providers
How do you know if you’re truly experiencing burnout? Here are common signs:
- Physical exhaustion – You feel drained no matter how much sleep you get.
- Emotional exhaustion – Even small issues feel overwhelming.
- Irritability – You’re snapping more than usual at kids or parents.
- Losing sleep – Stress keeps you awake at night.
- Increased anxiety and stress – Small challenges feel insurmountable.
- Job withdrawal – You dread work, even though you used to love it.
- Lack of motivation – You feel uninspired and struggle to plan engaging activities.
- Frequent headaches or muscle tension – Stress is manifesting physically.
If this sounds familiar, it’s time to take action before burnout worsens.
Burnout vs. Depression: What’s the Difference?
Burnout and depression share similar symptoms, but they’re not the same. Burnout is work-related stress, while depression affects all aspects of life. If you’re struggling outside of work, consider speaking with a professional. Healthline has a great breakdown of the differences.
Related Article: Managing Stress as an In-home Childcare Provider
21 Childcare Burnout Tips To Try
1. Identify the Root Cause
Ask yourself: What is causing the most stress? Then, find a solution.
- Are your hours too long? Adjust them (e.g., from 6 AM-6 PM to 7:30 AM-5:30 PM).
- Is a family constantly testing your policies? Have a direct conversation.
- Are you feeling isolated? Find a supportive online childcare provider group.
2. Set Boundaries with Parents
If late payments or last-minute schedule changes stress you out, enforce your policies. Your time is valuable!
If you have trouble having some of those more difficult conversations, take this time to do a revision of your policies and send home with everyone to reread and sign.
3. Find a Support Network
Join an online community where you can vent, get advice, and feel less alone. Be mindful—some groups can be toxic. Choose one that uplifts you.
4. Remember Your Value
Your work is incredibly important. Children are learning, growing, and thriving under your care. You matter!
5. Pick Up a Side Hobby
Find something outside of childcare that brings you joy. Even 30 minutes a week doing something for yourself makes a difference.
6. Go Window Shopping Alone
Sometimes, wandering a store with no agenda is the perfect mental reset.
7. Reconnect with Your Why
Why did you start your childcare business? Reflect on what you love about it and what needs to change.
8. Schedule YOU Time
- Plan a vacation or staycation (yes, you deserve time off!).
- Close for one day each month for self-care and personal errands.
- If you’re worried about closures, add them to your contract upfront.
9. Pamper Yourself
Schedule a massage, get a haircut, or have a spa night at home.
10. Plan a Fun Day with the Kids
- Movie Day – Popcorn, blankets, and a kid-friendly film.
- Pajama Party – A cozy, relaxed day in PJs.
- Dance Party – Even 15 minutes of silly dancing can lift your mood.
11. Talk It Out
- If a certain family is causing stress, communicate your concerns clearly.
- Let’s look at this from two standpoints, you have one family that constantly does something that aggravates you. They show up at weird times, their kids always walk in with food. Have you tried having a conversation with them? Perhaps they didn’t know you don’t allow outside food or it’s hard for them to get out of the house before 9am. What may seem like an uncomfortable conversation may actually be the gateway to improving your communication.
- Vent to a trusted friend or mentor.
12. Separate Business from Personal
Even if you love your daycare families, professionalism is key.
You can still love your families and be professional. Make it clear that you will not sway from your contract and policies and you should have a wonderful respectful relationship.
13. Accept That Not Everyone Will Appreciate You
Some parents will always push back, no matter how much you give. Don’t let them dictate your worth.
When I planned my maternity leave for my first child I had a daycare dad that was upset that I thought I needed a whole week off. Yeah, one whole week. The kicker, I felt terrible because I was letting this family down. They had months to plan for this. Over the years I have kept that moment in the back of my mind. I no longer feel bad for taking one week off to recover, I haven’t felt bad for years.
14. Rearrange Your Play Space
A simple room refresh can make a big difference in how you and the kids feel each day.
15. Revamp Your Program
- Introduce themed days (e.g., Science Mondays, Cooking Tuesdays).
- Create learning centers if space allows.
- Rotate toys to keep things fresh and reduce cleanup stress.
- Find materials that can help simplify your day with the kids
Learn More About The Free Little Learners Activity Bundle HERE
16. Raise Your Rates
- When was the last time you increased your prices?
- Do some research on your area. Check out Child Care Aware® of America to find your state and average costs in your area.
- Give your families a written letter about your rate increase effective [insert date]. Have them sign and date the form and return by [insert date].
- Having specific dates helps so you don’t have to go chasing paperwork.
17. Meet Up with Friends
Plan a coffee date or a simple chat with another adult.
18. Hug Your Kids
Sometimes, a warm hug from one of your little ones is the best reminder of why you do this.
19. Write Down Your Stressors
Physically listing out everything that’s bothering you can help you find solutions.
- Kids won’t clean up? Reduce the number of toys out and give specific directions.
- Parents aren’t paying on time? Show them the signed contract and enforce late fees.
- Space feels too small? Declutter and organize differently.
20. Take Action Before Burnout Gets Worse
Address issues as they come up—don’t let them pile up and affect your well-being.
21. Give Yourself Grace
You are human. You are doing an amazing job. Take a deep breath, make one small change today, and keep moving forward.
Take Control of Your Well-Being
Burnout is real, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Prioritize yourself, set boundaries, and remember—your daycare can only thrive when you’re at your best. What’s your biggest burnout trigger? What’s one step you can take today to recharge?
