I've had mixed reactions at different centres and honestly I think alot depends on individual carers. I went in the first 3 times with Matilda, for around 20 minutes just to sit & play in the room & let her get used to it while watching those working in the centre. I went to a few before I found one I liked, where they put the children's needs first, settled a difficult baby etc... in the end I had to take Matilda out because she continued to get sick every time she went into the centre.

I started Matilda at a family day care where she is in someone's home with 3 other children. She loves it there and the family day care "mum" is fantastic. I sat with her before I decided and discussed philosophies of care and settling and cc etc. She was fantastic and one of her children had reflux & was difficult to settle as well, so she "knew" Matilda as soon as they met. Matilda loves her & asks to go to Lizzie's house now. I feel confident with her and happy in our choice.

I had to use child care for a few reasons, one being that with PND and no family or support people I needed a break for a few hours a week. DH had a new job & couldn't take time off to help me when I needed it most. We also needed $$ when he lost his job and I had to start work & commit to one day a week, so I did.