Edit: Not sure if I can change the flair/title but I’d love to hear from nannys too. I’ve limited myself here haha.

I’m struggling a bit here. My NKs (6 year old twins) are super imaginative and playful, which I’m happy to see! They aren’t glued to screens at all. However, I’m feeling burned out already. With the exception of lunch, they can play all day. 8 hours of games can feel a bit overstimulating for me, and they’re so resistant to independent activities. When I encourage them to draw, read, do a puzzle or play anything on their own, they erupt into a tantrum. I feel like there’s no time to fill my own cup. If I go to the bathroom or take 5 minutes to eat my lunch, they’re repeatedly asking me “when are you going to be finished” every other minute. They literally wait outside the door when I go to the restroom.

To be clear, I’m not trying to avoid doing my job, I’m just a little overwhelmed by their constant need to be entertained by me. They seem like they’re used to getting what they want when they want it as me they have no patience. My end goal is just for them to be able to spend 10-20 minutes doing an activity on their own. I need some time to clean, organize or just take care of myself.

I’ve tried in many different ways to tell them “I need a few minutes”, but it’s not getting through to them. They completely disregard what I say. What’s a gentle yet firm and professional way to tell kids they need to play on their own or just leave me alone for a few minutes? 😂 And should there be a consequence for not respecting that quiet time?