I so believe that it is the carer at family day care that makes all the difference. We have an absolute gem, who at this stage is able to pick & choose her kids. She has turned a few away because they didn't "work" with her long term children. Matilda absolutely loves family day care, and I guess for us the decision came because she kept getting really sick at long day care and we were on the waiting list for family day care & it came through just at the right time. I had interviewed 3 family day care mums, and one I wouldn't leave her with, one had days I didn't really want but was debating when the one she is with now came up. The minute I met her I knew I would be able to leave Matilda with her. I show up early, I show up unexpected, I stay and chat for 20-30 minutes, I have gone over on the weekend for a coffee....

She hasn't had the easiest time with other parents, some have different ideas on what is expected of a "Carer" but thats because for her family comes first, and I agree with her values so we work well together.

We are thinking of moving a fair distance away and I have already phoned the family day care office & put Matilda on the waiting list. I can always say "no" if we don't need it & the waiting list is 6 months long.