Week 13: And so it begins!!

Kylie began daycare this week.  We went last week to the "Meet The Teachers" event and were reminded that it was a safe and warm place for her to be while we both work.  I think we were both a little saddened to be letting go of her so quickly - but trusting its a good thing for her in many ways - and us!

Our "La Farm" date before daycare 

On Wednesday morning I brought her to the daycare about 9:30AM.  It was comforting to walk in and be greeted right away - "ready for day one?"  I think its nice when you are expected and known when coming into an unfamiliar setting.  The teachers were very gracious to re-explain what needs to happen. I'd brought Kylie some back-up onesies, a big box of diapers, and her bottles for the day.  There is a specific process for preparing the bottles, indicating them as "breastmilk", and filling out her paperwork for the day.  We let the teachers know when she woke up, last ate, last had a diaper change, etc.  We are on a 3/4 time schedule 5 days a week - so 6 hours a day.  The plan was to return around 3:30PM. 

Right after leaving day care on day 1!

Still in awe 30 minutes later!

Then out like a light... 

Fortunately I'd planned to have lunch with a friend, and that was a nice diversion from having to leave her for the first time.  I was a little saddened to first walk away from her - but having to complete some paperwork and admin things helped distract me.  After the lunch, I went home and took a nap in the quiet house.  SO quiet.  And by then it was time to go get her practically. 

Saturday morning: no daycare

The next day went well also - it was harder getting out the door so I didn't drop her off until 10AM.  But they were just sitting there and I laid Kylie down on the mat with the teachers.  She seemed right at home.  Coming back at 4 - she looked so relaxed.  They said she was way less anxious and fussy than the day before.  Friday I took her to daycare, and Mike was going to pick her up.  Fortunately he let me come too- which I wouldn't have thought I'd be that excited to go.  When we got there Friday she was crying.  The teachers said she had some gas - so we went and bought some gas drops to help.  I am also going to try and cut out dairy for a few weeks and see if it makes any difference.  It may not, but it probably can't hurt.  They were very excited that she did so well in the buggy for walks outside.  They said she really enjoyed it.  They'll also help her play with water at some point also - not sure what that entails, but sounds fun!  We got a newsletter on Friday afternoon detailing her day - it even had her picture on it.  <3

Going with mom and dad to get their haircut!

All in all, its going well having her in daycare.  I feel way less anxious about the things I need to do for work - teaching, phone calls, meetings, etc.  She is fun to have along, but still so little that she's fairly unpredictable.  It's great to know she is in a safe place in good hands.  I feel very good about this new pattern.  And I'm thankful we still had a month to be together after I went back to work - a nice and long transition.  I can't wait to see how she grows and learns there.