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Original poster

I really like my childminder, BUT...

30 replies

bohemianbint · 04/09/2007 21:30

I have a few worries.

DS is 13 months and has been going twice a week since I started work part time last month. She doesn't really ever take them out I don't think, they just play in the house or the garden. And the tv is on ALL DAY. She feeds DS in a push chair and tries to get him to sleep in it. And he won't, because he's never been able to sleep unless he's in a quiet room by himself. She tried this the other week but said it didn't work.

I overlooked all of this because she's absolutely lovely, she thinks the world of DS and he loves going there. I'm totally happy about leaving him with her, she feeds him home cooked meals and is very affectionate and lovely with him, and I thought that this shoudl count for more.

But the lack of sleep he gets there concerns me. He's awake from 7am-7pm with no sleep and it's too much for him. And whilst I don't think he really watches the TV I wish it wasn't on all the time.

Am I being silly? What can I do?

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Katymac · 04/09/2007 21:53

How old are the 3 other children?

I think the travel cot might be a good idea

Original poster
bohemianbint · 04/09/2007 21:49

Thanks - oh it's difficult. Perhaps I should take the travel cot again and insist that she tries him in a quiet room. He is so tired and spends the rest of the week catching up.

I don't think she can drive, and she lives by a very busy road so there's not many places she can take them out to, so I thik they mainly just stay in and play. I don't know how she manages it cos DS goes mad with me if I leave him in the same room for longer than half an hour. But there are 3 other kids there and he liked to play with them, so maybe it evens out?

I dunno, it's all my own fault, I left it til the last minute and after meeting some horrors I was just so relieved to find someone nice!

Also worries me because at the mo, 2 days a week isnt' the end of the world (am trying hard not to be overly precious!), but I wouldn't be happy if I end up going to work more days in the week, it just wouldn't be do-able for him to lose 2.5 hours sleep per day every day...

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chankins · 04/09/2007 21:43

Hello, jus left a message on your other thread re. unwell Ds! I'm a c/minder, and I have to say its a shame she does not take them out, as I make a point of doing this every day, especially to toddler playgroups, because they can mix with more children and have even more access to toys, crafts, etc. Even when the weather is grim we'll be out in wellies and macks, at the park,or whatever, I firmly believe kids need exercise and fresh air daily! Tv also not good. Lots of people get in habit of leaving it on, most the time kids are not even watching it so its pointless. I always do what parents request regarding sleep, with my last 2 toddlers (I am currently on mat leave) both had to sleep in quiet room, curtains closed etc in travel cot, while other parents are happy for them to nap in buggies. As you think so highly of her it should hopefully be easy to ask to review the situation so far, tell her how much DS loves her, how happy you are with most things, but also mention your worries. They are genuine, and you know whats best for your child. I'm sure she won't mind you airing the concerns you have. They will only niggle at you anyway. If she's professional about it she won't be offended, and should be more than happy to change things and do whatever it takes to reassure you. Best of luck.

beansprout · 04/09/2007 21:42

Wow, no nap all day?! He must be beside himself by bedtime! I think you need to have a chat with her about this. Our (now ex) CM went the opposite way and 3 yos still have a nap at her house so she gets a break!

Original poster
bohemianbint · 04/09/2007 21:41

bump!

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