I know the fear can be paralysing. Go find out the facts first. Most schools now recognise there is a large percentage of children whose parents both work. Other options:
Childminders: I don't know if they would be called the same thing over there, but these are people (normally mums) who look after small groups (around 5) of children from the same school after school. They have to be registered with the appropriate authority, complete weekly forms etc and are checked against the appropriate registers, The school should be able to recommend some.
Before and after school clubs: Breakfast and afternoon clubs that take the kids to school and pick them up. They do homework with them, arts and crafts and play games. They will also feed them breakfast and a light supper. Again, the school should be able to recommend one or two.
Nanny: Picks the children up and looks after them until you get home. Will do light housework, washing for the kids, feed the children, do home work with them etc. Pricey, but you might be able to find one who can work with your childcare schedule - e.g. on for one week, off for another. I know someone who nanny shares - i.e. she has her for one week, and then she goes to another family for the other week. You can go google agencies etc which will be able to help you out.
Aupair: Someone who lives with you and helps look after the children. They normally get paid an allowance (here it's around �100 per week) plus room and board. this might be a bit harder due to the visa restrictions over there. The au pair thing is s 'cultural exchange' which means their primary goal is to experience a new culture - so what you get is normally young girls (19-25) looking to live in a different country with no training and no experience. I've had four, two who were brilliant and two who were a nightmare. It is a cr@p shoot, I would never do it again, and I don't think it's right for you, but thought I'd mention it. Also, I know someone who got an aupair through a charity at her church - someone who was looking to go to school but couldn't afford college and to put a roof over her head. That might be an option.
You've told me (and others here) not to let the fear take hold of you. Acknowledge it, understand it's source, then get up and do something about it. You are a good dad and you will find a way.
