What would you do in this situation (nursery and maternity leave)

katiegizmo

We are in the same situation as you, second on the way, first in nursery

We've decided to keep LO1 in nursry for a number of reasons - she loves it, she has friends there she talks about all the time who she wouldn't see otherwise, she does activities I couldn't do with her at home, I want to be able to bond with new baby, I want LO1 routine as little disrupted as possible, I want to take LO2 to some groups that LO1 just couldn't attend, we would lose nursery place, I want to keep a little sanity and get some housework done!!!!

We will be (very!)skint compared to before but to me that is less important than the experiences my LO's get and our family life as a whole. We won't be in this situation forever.

If things don't work I will reassess as nothing says the decision is set in stone. As to managing nursery runs with a toddler and newborn, I reckon it will be worse sorting 2 out when I get back to work so this is good practise!

thriftylass

Hello,

congratulations on your second pregnancy.

My DD is now 7 months old and in nursery too. When I was off with her my son (3yo) went still to nursery 2 full days as he loved it and full days were easier to manage logistically. Plus half days don't cost half price but usually 60-70% here. So 4 half days were more expensive than 2 full days. We were lucky as those two days were completely covered by childcare vouchers through both our employers. Those two days gave me a chance to deal with the house hold, rest and bond with baby. I didn't join any toddler/baby groups as I didn't enjoy them, some friends loved them.
Nursery runs with two should be fine at the start as the baby is very portable. Once in a car seat just get the toddler ready and go. My experience anyway. Never had a problem leaving the house on time with two. My husband is usually the problem, lol.

I went back to work after 6 months because I had to, but 9 months would have been ideal for me like with DS,

Pakkun

Thank you for your reply, katiegizmo and thriftylaff. And sorry about my late reply. It is great to hear that what someone in the same situation as mine did.


Katiegizmo, I agree with you that the nursery provides my DS a good opportunity to try out activities which we cannot do with him at home (such as messy play).


Thriftylaff, thank you for reassuring that the nursery run with two is doable. I think I need to be more organized to leave home on time!


Since I feel more and more exhausted with my pregnancy, I feel more comforatble and happy to keep DS in the nursery. Thank you everyone to share your views and experiences.


Best,


Pakkun

cr1mson

Are there any playgroups in your area? Could you send #1 to a local playgroup whilst on maternity so you get time with #2 once they are born. I know you said you didn't want to change settings but playgroups tend to have a different feel so wasn't sure if it could be a compromise. It would also allow you to meet local parents and for #1 to perhaps meet children he will eventually go to school with.