I really need some advice about an approach to settling in.
My first baby took ages to settle and now I've started with the second and it is very similar. I have chosen a childminder who seems great, comes personally recommended and loads of experience.
I've tried to follow her advice and we did one session at her house with me staying. DD cried when we arrived and wouldn't really leave my lap, but eventually got down to play.
She then suggested the second session she stay alone for an hour. I assumed I would come in for a bit but at the door she suggested to drop and go as she said it would be easier than her getting used to me being there (she was very kind about this, not pushy but confident).
Anyway I left and she cried non stop for 40 minutes and then I came back and she was sobbing and catching her breath, she was distraught.
What do I do now? She has suggested doing another drop and go next week and gradually building up the time. I feel like I should have gone in today and feel devaststed that I abandoned her like that when she wasn't ready.
I am so upset about this. I now think that she will have such bad associations with the place and we should have done a gentler approach.
Im thinking of suggesting next time I come in for a while but will that just confuse her??
What would you do?
Thanks