Worried

It’s so difficult because they’re so little and they’re not supposed to be away from you for hours at a time- it’s instinct that makes them clingy and want to be with mum. However we live in a world where most of us have no choice - I had to go back to work full time after my mat leave so my children have had to go to nursery and childminders, the only thing I can suggest is being super positive at drop off - ignore any crying etc. and just say ‘I love you, I’ll see you after lunch, (or whatever time you’re picking up) bye’ and then walk away confidently- even if you cry in the car afterwards. Then when you see them again you can give them lots of love and cuddles. It takes some adjusting but they do adapt to it eventually. Unless you can afford to give up work and look after them, you just have to go through it. Best of luck x

I agree with Rachael’s post. Stay calm and positive for your little one. It’s unfortunate, but lots of us Mommas have no choice, but to continue working. Give lots of hugs and cuddle and reassurance to baby that you will be back.

Is he napping well at the childminders? Hows he doing with meals with her etc?

Childcarer with nursery experience and mom here. All babies struggle and need mummy, even the ones who don’t show it and it’s completely normal. However some are more sensitive than others and have a very hard time going to childcare settings, unfortunately this is going to happen whether is childminder or nursery, however nurseries are more likely to “ignore it” and wait it out until the child get used to be there. If avoidable I would honestly avoid nursery or any kind of care until he’s 3 years old, I do know this is not possible in most cases sadly (me included)

To be honest it sounds like a pretty awful childminder! As if she only sent you photos of your child upset, how is that supposed to make you feel!
Who's the other child that she has? What age are they? Has she been doing this long?

I hope he settles at nursery, I was so worried about leaving my LO there but he thrived! He still goes now to after school club there so he can see his friends, they're so cute together!

Hey, from a mum that just did settling in day 1 with my boy at nursery today. I think nursery might be a good option. Your little one might like seeing more other little ones like him doing different things especially as there's lots to explore. Staff would also be knowledgeable on dealing when they are upset and have quiet rooms kids can nap.

It sounds like the childminder is not right for your bubba. 1 sounds like dismissive person 2. Not listening to you and your boy's queue if tired and want to sleep. 3. Seemed to be focus just to go out and about to playgroup without attending to your child's. 4 the childminder seemed to already have a picture in their mind if what sort boy you have i.e. by sending negative updates. Think childminder and your LO are not compatible I think it's because childminder doesn't adjust your boy's needs and feeling.

Give nursery a try you can do settling in period and see how he will be. You won't know until you try.

Best of luck x