Long days at nursery?

[extracrunchy]

So DS is going to start a new nursery in the next few weeks as he's 2.5 and would benefit developmentally and I'm expecting DD very soon.

He currently goes 3 mornings a week to a (turns out) crappy playgroup where he just hangs around doing the same stuff till I pick him up and I want him to actually get something out of being there or he may as well be at home doing boring stuff with knackered me!

Anyway, new place is amazing, lovely staff, lots of attention to individual kids and development, getting them to try new things - basically everything lacking at the old one BUT policy is they have to attend full days, 8 hours, apparently to get the most out of the curriculum (and the owner actively encouraged me to try elsewhere if I was uncomfortable, so I don't think it's a money making thing).

I'm a bit sad at the prospect of him going elsewhere for entire days (probably 2 a week) when all I really wanted was a bit of time with DD and some rest. But I know lots of kids go 5 days a week very happily! I guess I feel a bit guilty when really I could just have him at home, but he would almost definitely have less fun if I did...

Someone reassure me I wouldn't be doing something unnecessary by opting in! I mean he would benefit, right..? And is an 8 hour day (maybe 7 at a push) when I don't need him looked after by someone else for the whole day just copping out as a parent??? And how do you think 2 full days, probably thurs and fri (so big chunk away and big chunk at home) will impact in terms of settling in/adjusting longterm?

Thanks

[Bumpsadaisie]

You asked for personal opinions, so hoping it doesn't offend, here is mine:

• two whole days that are longer even than a school day for 4/5 year olds (!) is way too much for a 2.5 year old, in the absence of absolute necessity because of the parents working hours

• 2.5 year olds do not need to follow a "curriculum".

Good luck in deciding what to do and all the best for the safe arrival of DD!

[MaryPoppinsBag]

I think he would be fine 2 full days at nursery. Or if you preferred you could send him to a childminder who will follow the exact same 'curriculum' (EYFS) as a nursery. But in a more homely setting.