Daycare???
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@Kiyanna thank you for not invalidating what I’m feeling! I’ve had others tell me I’m just being overprotective and dramatic. I’ll definitely keep those tips in mind. Maybe I’ll make a whole list of questions when I go in for tours.
My son goes to daycare with security cameras and key fobs to enter. I started him back when he was about 12 weeks. I think we are more nervous than them. I was terrified!!! Research as much as u can about the daycares. Also weigh your options and do a lot of tours. My son has learned a lot in his daycare and they have an entire curriculum for the kids so they keep them busy and constantly learning. Best decision ever
We have been lucky to not have to send our girl to daycare. I work from home and my husband has a hybrid schedule so he has a lot of time at home and only has to leave on occasion. Some days are more challenging than others. We did find a woman through a mutual friend who watches kids in her home. one of her sons has severe medical needs so there is always a nurse there which was reassuring for us. She's amazing and we just use her as needed. So every now and then if our schedules are too busy we will send her. I totally understand your fears. Even before having her, I would think about daycare and seriously have a panic attack. Daycare can be absolutely fantastic if you find the right one! I think another plus is that your LO is a little older now. Obviously still pretty reliant on others, however, not as much as the newborn stage, ya know? That would make me feel a little bit better. Sending hugs mama! I hope you find something that's the perfect fit for your family!
I think this is totally rational. I would look for a nanny if you can. If it's only an extra 2 hours, it might cost about the same? I'm in some nanny groups and I see plenty that jump on $17/hr and even less. Then you can just have cameras in your home and really know who is watching your daughter. I wouldn't be able to put my kids in daycare, so you're definitely not alone!
Hello! I hear you mama! It is the most terrifying thing having to leave your little with what seem to be complete strangers. My little one has been in daycare since he was about 4 months. Started off at a home daycare (family friend) which I do not recommend based on my experience however, I had the privilege of having a wonderful friend who’s daughter went to a KinderCare near by. She was able to provide me the ins and outs before I even spoke to the center and also let me know how comfortable she was leaving her daughter there. We made the switch and have been so pleased since then. Of course I cried leaving him for the entire first two weeks. I would cry during lunch breaks at work and once I saw him giggling and smiling at drop off, I knew he was in good hands. The daycare provides me constant updates throughout the day which is also what helped me overcome my anxiety.
They post pictures of activities he’s doing throughout the day, what he has for breakfast and lunch, his diaper changes, etc. Not to mention all of the development growth we have seen in him. He comes home having learned something new everyday. We are always so grateful and in awe when we hear him say another new word or do something he hadn’t done with us previously. He loves his routine, teacher and friends. I figured this will ultimately help him in transitioning to school one day. It takes lots of prayers before drops offs and having the confidence that he is safe to be okay with it all. My heart is with you. Nothing about this is easy however, it takes a village and typically that includes strangers in your community that are qualified and can be trusted. 🫶🏼
Hello! Not in this group but I have worked I daycares for five years. Even working in them, it still makes me nervous too. My son attends a daycare with cameras. Parents have access to them all day which I like. Most centers have apps that track activities, naps, meals, etc just so you know what your kiddo is up to throughout the day. The positives are mental, social, and physical development. My son has been in daycare since six weeks old and he thrives in every single stage. It is nerve wracking. It is hard. It may be trial and error choosing what works best for you. Maybe even air tag them. Ask ALL the questions and advocate for you and your baby!