Many of you parents do this every single day so you may find this a total non-issue but…
Today started a new stage in our year and a half old son’s life; early development child care. Yes, for the very first time in 16 months, I dropped our precious one off to learn and play with other children. Not wanting him to be overwhelmed or frightened, I decided to only leave him for a few hours. I felt there was no reason for a soaring heart rate and high level of stress. (It was enough stress on me!)
My husband and I decided before he was born, to work towards me being a stay-at-home-mommy, therefore my absence is rare. We spend every moment together, every single day and while I do take him to things that involve other children, I am always around.
Our families are BIG TIME social and we’re the types that just have fun doing different things for which he will never want for experiences. We go and do a lot of things including a lot of short trips, day trips, vaca’s and more. When at home, having a toddler on the move definitely leaves me winded at times and wishing I had more hands. If you’re a mom, you know what I’m saying. And, trying to keep up is a 24/7 job and just as important as the one I once did making real money. I have embraced this mommy role and love, love, love! With that said, I allow our boy to navigate through his day at his own pace. In thinking of his needs though, I realize that he needs social skills with others and that’s what today was all about.
The struggle of separation was real today on my end and I am sure his. Even when we went into the daycare I felt he knew something was up. It showed in his face and his tense body language. And for certain, it was telling by a greeting of tears when I returned for pickup. I think after my experience, I am a “Mommy & Me”, one-on-one, type parent. I enjoy the weekly library classes, bounce houses, music sessions, luncheon on the lawn, being side-by-side type days. I did not like being away from him and I know he missed me and yes, I know he benefited but it was a difficult day for us. All I can say today is, I am so thankful for a supportive family.
I learned a lot today. Here are a few tips that I found worked for me:
- Plan ahead: Calculate the amount of time you need to get yourself and child ready then add 45 minutes. This is more realistic and will help you stay on target. This will not only relieve stress but allow you time to deal with any unexpected dilemmas (such as a blowout, traffic or unexpected concerns). If you do arrive early then you have more time to spend with your little one or take a moment to yourself.
- Prepping: Prepare as many items the night before and load in car. Make sure to write a list of the items that need to be packed the day of.
- Set your child up for success: Talk with your child about the upcoming day. Make it an adventure with a reward at the end.
- Pack for the worst: Be sure to pack an extra set of clothes including socks and shoes. There is nothing worse than a child having an accident and everyone scrambling for left behind items that your child can fit into. Place items in a large ziplock with his name on it.
- Embroidery: Having a bag with your child’s name on it will ensure your little one receives the correct diapers and such. I would only allow this bag for child development centers, to take to Gramma’s but not to be used while out and about.(Names on their personal bags could be a tool for those with bad intentions).
- Tag: Tag your child’s clothing with his name. It is hard for me to keep up with a child’s clothing at home, can you imagine having the dozens in a day care situation. Be sure to place your child initials, first or last name on the inside tag of clothing.
- Pre-register: Make sure to visit the centers website for new enrollment paperwork. This will not only save time but allow for an easy transition upon arrival.
The best to you and yours friends! Now to snuggle with mine!
Katie Girl
