Leaving children alone overnight.

Savvy_Sue

Actually, one thing you have to think about is whether or not they will be anxious / worried about Mum, and whether that will make things more difficult. Will the youngest 'settle', and if not will the older two 'cope' if there are tears at bedtime?

I don't think mine were the least bit bothered when I went in for brain surgery: one went off to London for the week and won the award for 'least caring parent' when his phone didn't start ringing after the 7th July bombings [that was the first day I was well enough / awake enough to listen the radio, but I couldn't use my phone and assumed I'd hear soon enough if he'd been involved]; one was doing work experience and catching two unfamiliar buses every day to get there; and one was sailing with the school and had to be taught how to use the washing machine before I went in so his clothes weren't left wet and smelly until I came home.

They were similar ages to the OP's, but all boys. Not sure if that makes a difference ...

JimmyTheWig

theoretica wrote: »

They will be fine. If you feel they need it, divide what you would pay a babysitter three ways between them for taking care of themselves.

Tell them that this money is available for them, but they only get it on your return if they've been good.