OT- My baby is growing up!!

[Derby4me]

Yesterday my husband and I went to visit the daycare that my daughter will attend when my FMLA leave ends at the end of the month. The reality of leaving my daughter on a daily basis is catching up with me!! She’s 2 months old today and I can't help but feel like a bad Mom for leaving her in someone else's care. I just don’t know how I’m going to be able to part with her! I’ll have to start playing the lotto so I can stay home with my little girl.

 

[AuroraJae]

Oh, I know how hard it must be! I cried at the thought of going to the beach with girlfriends and leaving Ferris with his Dad for several hours. And not because Corey wouldn't do an awesome job but because of the separation anxiety that has over come me since he was born.

Good luck and I hope it gets easier!

 

[daneenm]

I know how you feel, but just remember, YOU ARE NOT A BAD MOM! Daycare is a necessary reality for many families. That said, I found it hard in the beginning.

Here is how it went for me...

• Week 1 - I cried every day when I dropped her off
• Week 2 - I cried only on Monday when I dropped her off
• the next 3-4 months - I cried after every 3 day weekend or day off

Baby #2, repeat above.

Babies #1 and #2 are now 12 and 8 and I seldom cry any more

It will get easier, but you will all adjust over time.

 

[TSWJan78]

I am with you.. My little one is 2 months Monday and her first day of daycare is also Monday... I am crying just thinking about it but we will all get through and I look at this as just one on many milestones we will meet over the rest of there lives.

 

[DVCJones]

Lots of hugs to you

I know what you mean and I will tell you, it DOES get easier.

When I dropped my 1st DD off for the first time, I couldn't even leave the parking lot. I actually sat in my car and cried for 15 minutes. I then needed another 15 minutes to pull myself together.

I think it was really hard because my DD was diagnosed with cancer when she was an infant. Staying home wasn't an option for many reasons (med. insurance) I returned to work when she was "in remission."

The first week is hard. The second week is easier ...and so on. Fast forward, she is now six (very healthy) and while she is in kindergarten now, she still talks fondly of her days at daycare/preschool. It was also very good for her academically. She entered school already reading.

So, it is very hard, but remember there are some benefits too. Especially if you research and find a good facility.

More hugs to you!!!

 

[Derby4me]

Julie - welcome back!! You have been so missed, but I didn't want to rush your return because I understand the importance of baby bonding time. It sounds like Ferris is pure joy!

daneenm - I'm sure I'll have tears for awhile! I can't imagine that she is going to be 8 then 12! Thanks for the encouragement!

TSW - Another new Mom! I don't know what was in the water about 11 months ago but we were all drinking it! I'll make it a point to think of you on Monday as you are going to face D-day (Daycare) before me. Good Luck and stand tough!

Jones- I don't know how you did it! It's difficult enough with a baby that doesn't have health issues. So happy to hear that your little girl is growing big and healthy! Just goes to show that this is only a season and it too will pass.

Thanks again for all the kind words!

 

[newmouse2008]

It never ends ladies!! I cried the first day of school for all three of mine. When they fall down and get hurt and you are not there to help. I do remember going to the movies when Max was a baby and having to leave early because I couldn't stand not knowing what was going on or if Kelvin changed his diaper. Now I can't stand not knowing where he is when he takes the car and goes to the mall.

 

[NWOhioAngela]

Wait til she gets married and has her own babies!

(Sorry that's probably not what you wanted to hear!)

 

[PixieFan]

Just wait til they start driving! Or dating! I have 16 & 15 yr old boys. I LONG for the daycare days. Oldest was only in daycare less than 1 year thanks to the surprise of his younger brother. But I remember how hard it was. Those 3 months flew. Like the others have said, it really does get easier. Enjoy the time you have left and don't think about it too much!!

 

[Bornteach]

I cried all the way to work the first time I dropped DD off. I think I called to check on her every 15 minutes. I knew in my heart of hearts that I would be a better mom if I went back to work as I love what I do and I wanted her to have other experiences besides me......it didn;t make it any easier!

Now, she is headed to kindergarten and she is happy, healthy and a smrty pants!

Don't feel like a bad mother, loving your child, and being mentally healthy is the best thing for the both of you!!!

 

[LilGMom]

I can totally relate!! I was home for about ten months with my oldest DS before I sent back to work FT. I had my DH go with me on that first day and after handing my DS over to one of the teachers I immediately went to the car and started bawling! My DH stayed in the daycare to finish signing papers and when he came out he told me to go across the street to my office and tell them I quit. I was soooooo torn but I am very glad that I didn't quit. Like Bornteach, I love my job and what I do and knew that for my own mental stability that I needed to work.

Sure there are days when it is really hard juggling work responsibilities and kids, especially if they are sick, but my kids definately haven't suffered by being in daycare. I also cried when my oldest started kindergarten even though he had been in a daycare/preschool. Sure, there are days when I really miss my kids but there are also some Mondays when I'm glad that I have a job to go to and that I know my youngest is in a wonderful daycare and my oldest is in a good school.

 

[mejkjj97]

I can completely sympothize with you. My DD is now 3 and that first day was so difficult. Now she can't wait to go to school and it's great seeing her happy and with all her friends. In the end, she is doing wonderful, out going, silly, and every moment I spend with her is so cherished.

I love coming home every night now to her running into my arms with a big smile and a huge hug. It gets me through the day every day.

Try not to feel guilty and just enjoy every second with your daughter.