I can see having Jayde in daycare (sort of) so she can meet other toddlers, but a baby? Is there any advantage in that for a baby? I'm aware that many working mothers have no choice in the matter, but, if you had a choice, would you do it?
shareI went to daycare as a baby. My parents had to work. There's nothing wrong with me because of it. It didn't harm my development or relationship with my parents in any way. There's nothing wrong with having a baby in daycare.
shareI think most of the time it's harder on the parents than it is on the child. I'm a new mom to a 4 week old baby and the thought of putting him in daycare when I go back to work breaks my heart, but I know people have to work. Luckily my parents are both retired and will watch him several times a week so at least he will be with his grandparents, and I will try to work from home or be off one day a week. My boyfriend works from home so we are going to see if he can have him one day a week if possible. Not everyone is lucky enough to have that flexibility or have family close by so I know I'm fortunate. I do think it's good for older toddlers (2-3) to be in a structured, social environment with other kids before starting kindergarten. My son is a month old and I'm already looking to get him on the list for a Montessori pre-school and that's several years away haha.
My parents both worked when I was growing up and I also don't think I'm messed up because of it.
Piggy, if it works for you & your son that's all that matters. I worked with many women who came back to work at 6 weeks for more than one child & they were happy with the arrangement. I never wanted children, but if I did I know I could not do this. I could not go to work & put a baby in daycare. I always said I would have the kid at home until pre-K. To me, this was non-negotiable. Luckily I never got pregnant!
shareNot saying it's going to always mess anyone up but the level of care will never be on par with what a good parent could provide at home.
The only thing constant in life is change