I have been doing before and after school care for up to 5 kids including some preschoolers to help finance my stay-at-home parent role and to start a wilderness guiding business. We spend almost all of our time outside, regardless of weather, and the kids have all increased their enjoyment of the outdoors. I generally do not actively play with the kids, as I believe they learn more from negotiating play among themselves. Several strong friendships have formed between children in my care. We sometimes make "field trips" which have included going to outdoor skating rinks in the , swimming, and pack rafting . Other than playing outside, typical activities have included, arts, crafts, and music. I never turn down kids who want to be read to. I am not a conventional babysitter, but kids soon warm up to my gentle, humorous nature. I am the most patient person I know. My own children are a teen and a pre-teen, and any clients are welcome to meet them to help them judge my child care style. I am willing to do drop-off and pickup, if the school timetables are sufficiently offset to be able to walk between them.