Glad to be of service TMD!
I had heaps of advice on how to deal with DS- both on here and in RL. Most people said to keep going with it (nursery) but I just couldn't- I've never seen him get in that kind of state before and for one so young it seemed so unnecessary IYKWIM.
What I did find really reassuring was my parents and sister (teachers in RL) said that at his age I shouldn't worry about nursery as he will learn just as much from me anyway. They say that some kids benefit from more time with mum and being at home-nursery does not suit all children- especially toddlers. And no- I wasn't damaging him by keeping him at home with me-he wasn't missing out! (one of my worries!)
I worry that we don't socialise enough but they all reassure me that he's fine from a developmental viewpoint and he will benefit more from being with me. Everyone wants to do the best for their child and go with your instincts.
I've learnt to avoid certain situations as he is more prone to meltdowns if I take him to classes like Tumbletots! (have tried that and was a disaster!) He's happiest when he's looking at animals at the farm, by the sea, park or generally playing outdoors. Indoor play (if i go in quiet times) does suit him too as its not structured and we can do as we like.
Its also hard as because he's so tall people assume he's older than 22 months and probably expect more from him. I've found that by taking him out in the morning, sleep at lunch and quiet time in afternoon works for us and he's much happier as a result. If I try and do something that means he has no sleep (which sadly rules out most toddler groups round here!!) then it is really hard work and tears for us both!! That's when he gets really angry and frustrated as i'm sure he gets irrational because of the tiredness and over stimulation.
When he was a baby, I was careful to plan my day around him to allow him sleep time as he was awful if he was tired. As a result he was generally a pleasure to have around (in the main!) Am hoping that no. 2 will fall in to a similar routine.
It is hard as most of my friends kids do go to childcare and I find myself justifying why I don't! Its silly tho as my work is genuinely work from home and I made some changes so that i'm no longer tied to my computer to do it-my thoughts are now that if I don't need it then why try!!
I have registered him for pre-school sessions so will see how that goes. The lady that runs them said that he could start at 2.6 or wait until he's 3. She was quite adamant that some toddlers aren't ready to start until they are older which was also refreshing to hear. The sessions are also much shorter than nursery and (again-from my parents!) are less likely to tire him out so he should enjoy them rather than stress him out.
Obviously nursery works for many people but something that my sister said to me stuck a chord- she used to work as a Reception class teacher and commented on how much longer a 'nursery day or session' was than a school one. Food for thought anyway!
Ehjoy your DS- they won't be wanting mummmeey forever!!