Childminder query
My 11 month old son started his settling in sessions at the childminder this week. So far he has done 3 hours for two days. I met with the childminder 5 months ago and apart from the contract and forms etc, there was no information about how these settling in sessions would be. I assumed I would get to see him play for a while but it was literally hand him over at the door. He came out without a hat or coat on which really annoyed me especially in this weather. I also asked about updates or photos to which I was told they're too busy but yet I had signed a consent form to allow emails, texts and WhatsApp messages to both parents?On the second day I explained he would need a nap and he has a comfort blanket and white noise machine which I had packed. When I collected him, they said he slept half an hour but I know from his bag that his blanket wasn't touched and his food wasn't given to him, only some snacks. As a FTM I don't know what to expect. We have another settling in session next week and 2 longer days. Any advice? Thank you.
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I packed food and snacks. He had some snacks but wouldn't take the food from them. They didn't mention trying any other foods with him. Thanks for your advice. I think I was so emotional about it all, hopefully this week will be better and I'll get some clarification 😊
So it’s really normal for them to not eat well at first, to refuse, to only snack etc, as long as they actually tried to feed him. It’s such a difficult time, and any childcare provider should be aware and understanding of that, and doing their bit to reassure you and keep you fully informed. Hopefully after a chat with them and a couple more sessions you’ll begin to feel more at ease
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I think some of this is wrong, and some is fairly normal/standard. Most settle sessions are you drop off and leave, but not all, and you absolutely should have had info about what to expect! As for handover, sometimes if you’re going straight in the car to go home, and would be taking a hat and coat straight back off I can understand why that might have happened. I think it’s wrong that they simply said they were too busy to give you updates, especially on his first sessions! Nursery have always done updates with photos for my boys when settling in. Naps are tricky. Sometimes there isn’t always a way to use the exact sleep provisions you use at home, but again I would expect there to have been a conversation about what to expect. Food- Did they mention that they tried and he didn’t want it? Or did you pack too much? Did he have any other food or only what you provided? The best person to answer all of this would be the childminder, don’t be scared to ask/get clarification