AIBU to send 18 month old to nursery when I don’t have to?

[Plmoknijb123]

I have secured a place for my toddler to attend a nursery/playgroup for 3 hours a day, 3 days a week but given the covid risk in London, AIBU to send her? Given that I could look after her myself at home?

(I applied for the place pre-covid spike because I thought it would be good for socialisation and learning)

What would you do?

If send her

*I'd

Send her obviously

Send her, kids benefit from being around other kids. Mums benefit from some down time. Win win

DS goes three days a week although I'm not back at work for a few months. It's great for him and he loves it and I'm so glad that I only have to entertain him on two days a week. Also in London but the nursery have a lot of sensible precautions in place so it feels quite safe.

I’m in a similar situation, I’m about to start my just turned 2 year old at a playgroup, 3 hour sessions twice a week. We’re in Manchester, been in local lockdown since end of July! I really don’t need to, and I don’t feel like I need a break from him (compared to his sister he’s a dream!) but there are no toddler groups in at the moment, and he’s getting barely any socialisation with other children, so I think (hope!) it’ll be good for him. I feel a bit apprehensive as he’s such a mummy’s boy, and doesn’t take kindly to strangers! Probably all the more reason to send him though! Hope your daughter gets on ok. I’m sure she’ll love it

I personally didn't in your situation. More because I liked doing stuff with her and knew I would be working when she was 3. It wasn't covid time though so different as I met up with friends everyday and went places. It must be trickier now to do.

Thanks everyone! Really useful advice! It’s hard because I know it’s a slightly increased covid risk if I send her, but I think it could be something fun for her to do as she has been stuck just going on walks and visiting playgrounds with me. Even though this is fine and I enjoy her company, I wonder if she would get more out of being with other children for a few hours in a more structured environment. Just want to make the right decision!