I believe that your child can feel your stress and anxiety. So how bout when you go back to work try not to worry how he will react when your dropping him off at day care or where ever he is going. When i first took my son to Day care he was 11 months and I didnt feel bad or have any seperation anxiety i just saw it as a break and my son was really shy so i knew i had to put him in early otherwise when I do decide to go back to work it would be harder for him to settle in, and now he is 14months old he is great not shy at all anymore haha, He still goes to day care 2 days a week he loves playing all day there. You will feel alot healthier when you go back to work even though you will be working its still a break from being a mum for a couple of days and it really does help! I hope all goes well and good luck with it all

~ Jessica

First off I have to add that I am a single mother with 2 children under the age of 5. From a mothers perspective I feel for you and the anxiety and overwhelming need to want to nurture your children and to "hold" on to them. I believe that the first 5 years are the most important in the development process for children and the best person to care for your child is YOU the mother. I suggest that you speak with your child before you place him into the situation, reasure him on ALL levels about the experience. Take your child into the place of care and walk him through, talk to him about what activities will take place in the various areas ege. lunch time, play time, study etc. For the first week (at least) only give him half days and by all means when you leave, tell your child "good bye" and that "you will pick them back up later on". Reasure the child of this. Dont just leave with out saying good bye and dash out so "they cant see you leave".

As a previous childcare worker ALL children scream at first when they realise what the situation is and that you are leaving them with a person that they dont know. It of course would be great if the care giver was someone they knew and trust to help ease the process. However, children are very resilient. I believe the key is to continue to give them security in that you will be picking them up and to say good bye. They will kick and scream because this is their method of vocalizing that "hey, mom hear me, i would rather be with you". If your child knows that you have anxiety about the situation, they are more likely to have a harder time adjusting to the childcare arrangements.

After you pick your child up, make sure that you speak with them. At this age they should be able to vocalize to you any concerns that they could be having. So ask "did you have a good day", "Did you have fun", " did you make any new friends", "do you like your teachers" etc. Also, speak to other parents that have their children in the facility. If your child has any "behavorial" changes that are negative these should be addressed promptly.

Good luck to you! I as a mother am going through the same thing......I have a 4 year old and a 15 month old and I have just placed them in childcare so I feel for you. Always go with your gutt when making arragements where your children are concern. Some facility's can be deceaving from the "outside".

BLESSINGS!

~ Blah

My little girl is 7 months and im trying to wean her at the moment because Ii cant express enough to go back to work but Ii think they would handle it. its all about routine for the little buggers, it doesnt take them long to adjust. Only go back if you are completely sure and dont rush enjoy the precious time of having them so little it doesnt last long!!!

~ Jody

Thanks heaps for everyones advice and comments .. you guys have given me alot to think about!! Again thank-you

~ Tara :))