DS is about to start day care one day a week.. he has been by my side exclusivley for over two years and other than hanging out with dad he has never been away from me for long periods of time- so we have been having lots of orientation at the the day care centre where i am still there and he is getting to know the carers and the kids.

But so far we havent had alot of luck when i am not right beside him... i am in two minds about how i have been doing things.. i didnt want him to get too used to me being there right beside him coz then when he is going without me it would be a big change- but at the same time- i want him to feel safe and secure... so i have stayed with him for a bit- and then i tell him i am just going to check on baby or go to the office and leave him to play.. he is ok for about 20-30 minutes then i hear him.. his sad "mummmyyy" so i try and let the carers do their thing first- and so far nothing has worked for him until i come back and see him - then within seconds he is fine and just wants to play with me- he doesnt want to go home.. in fact when i say its time to go- he doesnt want to- he just wants me to be there with him.

So i guess i am asking for any advice or stories of ppl who have had a bit of an adjustment with starting day care.. am i doing the right thing and maybe will he be a bit different when he knows i am not there- either in a good way- or in a bad way. The care centre is only a 2 min walk from home so if he is upset i will be right there to pick him up- i am just a bit worried for him, and at the same time i am wondering if its the right thing to do to send him there or wait til he is older and can understand more- or if i should be doing it now so that he has a bit of getting used to not being with me when it comes time for preschool and kindy etc....

Also any day care workers if you could give me your perspective on it too would be good.. thanks!!! Sorry for the rambling!!