When my kids were small, I was a SAHM and I did not need childcare. I wanted my kids to be exposed to valuable sports and lessons, but it was more important to me to protect their unscheduled downtime. Leaving as many afternoons open as possible was my goal. At school, they were told when to sit, where to walk, and how to learn. It’s structured down to the minute. At home, I felt that my job was to provide the balance.