The Fabulous World of Daycare: Conclusion and Tips

I've thought long and hard on my recent posts about daycare. Re-reading them, I totally sound like a downer and over all complainer! And I do sincerely apologize for not sprinkling some sugar in there.

The reality of daycare is, it's hard with or without the insane situations I was presented. And if you choose or have to be a working mom you are going to be faced with some obstacles. So here's a a few tips to get you through your own daycare travels

1) It is okay to play hooky with your kids
   On my worst days when I'm staring at Lil Miss's picture at my desk feeling rather blah and sad, I snatch her up at lunch time and head home early. It's not a regular thing and I keep it to particular downer days. It makes me feel like I am still worth something to her and she gets some special Mommy time.

2) No one is going to take care of your kiddo perfectly
  I had to learn this one fast and I think most moms do. I bit my tongue more than I would like to admit with the first day care. Within one week of her being there I was having second thoughts and wondering if I should find someplace else for her to go. But she was safe and well looked after. Her teacher was not perfect, and no one would be. No one is going to do things exactly the way I would. It's best to get over this so that you can truly evaluate your daycare situation.

3) No one is going to replace you
 You tell your kiddo no and he cries for his teacher. Can I say "Ouch!" It stings having someone else be important in your kiddo's life. Especially if you are feeling that you are not around as much as you would like. But the fact of the matter is, no one is going to replace Mommy or Daddy. It is a good thing for kiddos to have people who care about them. And it's a good thing for them to connect with their teacher. Get over the sting and move on knowing that you are the most special person to them (regardless of what they may say during tantrums)

4) You know whats your best for your kiddo
 Not that you shouldn't listen to what teachers have to say, but take it with a grain of salt. You really do know your kid best and just because they are watching your kid doesn't mean you have to give in. If it doesn't sit right with you don't do it!

5) Be nice to the teachers
 I know I did more than my fair share of bitching about teachers recently, but I was always respectful to them. After all, they had my most loved person in their care! They deal with insanity all day long from angry parents to teething babies. It's fine to be firm or to go above their heads when needed. But try to think clearly during pick up and drop off. They have a rough gig and most of them don't deserve the anger directed towards them.

6) Let the Mom Guilt Go!
 I know, I know. I said the guilt doesn't go away. And it hasn't for me yet. That doesn't mean I am not striving to let it go. I know I am doing what is best for my family. It may not be what is best for Joe Blow down the street, but it is what is best for us. If I am doing what is best for us, than I have no reason to hold onto the Mom Guilt. In my moments of clarity I can see this.

So chill out, have some coffee and revel in your fabulous daycare moments. . . guilt free!

~Coffee Mom