New working mum

My DS is nearly 2 and i have just started working im currently doing three shifts a week and have him in preschool. Its absolute torture dropping him off he screams and cries when i pick him up in the afternoon they say he has been upset all day. I'm not sure if its worth it. The extra money does help out but we could go without it again. Hes only young once right, then again maybe i shouldn't give in and he will get used to it? Its been 5 weeks of this so far i feel like giving up.
Your thoughts please

You poor thing. I have started back doing a few shifts lately, and my little on has been pretty good, and i still hate it. I don't think i could continue if bub was upset all day. Would a different type of care maybe suit your little one better, something like Family day care?

The first month I went back to work DD cried every day and so did I! :) It's tough and it broke my heart, but we have no choice. We moved her to a different centre after 2 months as she didn't seem to be happy even though she finally stopped crying. We found that it actually helped! The chemistry between her and the carers in the new centre is better for some reason and she's happier since.

:hug: I can feel your sadness and heartbreak in your words.

I'm trying to word this so it doesn't sound like I'm making it all about you, because I'm not, it's just the most common issues I've seen as a carer.

When you drop him off do you hang around for a bit saying goodbye? Often if the drop off process is drawn out it makes it worse. A quick kiss, say "goodbye, I love you, I'll come back and pick you up after your nap/ lunch/ whatever" and walk away is usually much less traumatic for them.

Having said that, maybe you could spend a couple of days there with him to help him feel a bit more comfortable with the surroundings and the teachers?

He could also be picking up that you're anxious about it. Which would not help either.

How do YOU feel about the centre and the staff?
Do you get a good vibe?
Are they happy and smiling when they greet you?
Do they say hello to your LO and try to make him feel welcome even if he's upset?

Maybe have a chat to the director of the centre or group leader of your DS's room and see if they have any other ideas?

Failing that maybe it is time to look for a new place/ type of care. Family Day care may be a better option for your lttle man.

:hug: Good luck. :goodluck: