Simply approach it in a logical manner, as you would any work situation. By thinking through the important factors carefully and considering each and every option, you're sure to find the perfect fit.We've all heard a fellow mother say it: "Aren't you worried your child will want to be with their teachers more than you?" Feelings of jealousy toward a child's caregiver is extremely common for a working mother. Common or not, such jealousy is silly.
Childcare should be viewed as an opportunity for our children to learn to feel safe and confident with someone other than just Mom or Dad. It's a good thing. Support your caregivers and encourage the development of great relationships with your children that are all their own.
The best way to do this is to get to know your caregiver - before you enroll. It will help you relax if you feel you really know him or her, and it will help you make your childcare decision. So have discussions with each caregiver on how they intend to handle tough situations, like separation sadness. But also remember that just as the teachers are developing their own relationships with your children, they also do things differently than you, and that is okay.
One of the most difficult issues I had with getting comfortable with daycare for Megan was getting over my fear that her teachers didn't know her secrets. They did not know that she liked having a pacifier handed to her upside down, or that she often preferred having one sock on and one sock off while napping. It's true, they did not know nor did they necessarily feel the same concern I felt for these little nuances. But children are surprisingly adaptive. Good caregivers will find their own way - and might even surprise you with new secrets they learn along the way.
Once you've made your childcare decision, it's important to continue to acknowledge your caregiver. Have brief chats when you pick your child up, send notes of appreciation, and absolutely acknowledge him or her on teacher appreciation day. Starbucks cards are my go-to gift of choice.
Finding the right childcare for you and your little ones does not need to be stressful. Simply approach it in a logical manner, as you would any work situation. By thinking through the important factors carefully and considering each and every option, you're sure to find the perfect fit. This, added to embracing the idea of childcare, puts you firmly on the road to abolishing working mother guilt.
Samantha Knowles is the author of Working Mom Reviews designed to give great tips and strategies to women across the nation To understand how your mate really ticks, check out Capture His Heart Review/ To get your resume working for you, check out Blue Sky Resumes Review/
