Dear Blythe,
My beautiful four month old daughter Jessica, just started preschool and I'm just not comfortable with the infant room! I felt very good about my decision at the time of enrollment but now I am nervous every morning. Please help, this is all so new and scary. Thank you.
Bonnie
Dear Bonnie,
It is difficult enough to get up each morning and get yourself and your baby out the door without having to worry about preschool. You should have peace of mind and trust that your daughter's everyday needs will be met in a kind and loving manner.
Most infant rooms have six to eight babies even though the health department allows two teachers for ten babies. It is the teachers job to meet their needs in an efficient yet warm and loving manner and providing a stimulating environment for your baby to blossom and grow Your baby's disposition should support the type of care she is receiving.
If your gut says something is wrong, you have every right to question the teacher. You are the boss and the teachers are working for you. Just as in any business, being the boss gives you the right to ask for details if they are not clear. Don't ever be afraid to ask questions when it concerns your baby's well-being.
The following tips will help you gently acquire the detailed information you need.
At drop off, ask the teachers if they would mind giving you a quick phone call midday for a progress report for the first few weeks until you feel comfortable.
If the phone call doesn't allow enough time for details, request a time that is better for the teacher.
If the teachers are unwilling to talk with you, talk to the director. Every teacher's job is to make each parent feel comfortable and provide the trust they need to leave their baby in their care.
If a daily report doesn't come home each day, request one. "We are too busy" is not acceptable.
The health department requires a posted feeding schedule for each child. If you don't see it, ask where it is.
At drop-off, let the teacher know if your baby has any special needs for the day. Things can change daily with an infant. If you are met with any type of resistance, ask questions. Simple requests should never be a problem.
Asking the teacher to keep your baby awake in the afternoon so she can nap at home is an unreasonable request. While it would be great, unfortunately your baby is not the only one that needs care.
If possible, drop by for a visit when you know your baby won't be sleeping and observe from the window. Seeing the great care she is receiving will make you feel better.
Try your best not to enter the room during this visit. A parent walking into the room can be very disruptive to the teachers as well as the babies.
Being told that you cannot observe without an appointment, is a big, red flag Show up anyway. Any preschool that has appointment only policy would make any parent feel uncomfortable
At pick-up if your baby's clothes are soiled or her diaper is wet, ask why. Sometimes a baby has just been changed and two seconds later she spits up. The daily report will reflect the time her diaper was last changed. Try not to assume the worst.
If the school doesn't provide a parent rooster, ask for one. Being in touch with other parents provides a great support system!
While this is all new, patience is a virtue. There is a period of adjustment and "getting to know you" when your infant starts preschool. Try and relax during this transition. If after a month things are still not to your liking, this may not be the right place.
Blythe Lipman 2009
Inspiration
Child Myth #1
Labor ends when the baby is born!!!
