In a flap now!!!!!!!

[Jenum71]

I have a parent coming to see me on Monday with regards to looking after her child (11 months) for a couple of afternoons a week starting in November - I am now in a bit of a flap - I am both nervous and excited (I love babies!) about it!

I dont think I have much stuff that is needed for a baby! Should I rush out and buy some stuff? What will I need? toys, changing mat, highchair - omg im getting myself into a state now!

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Hiya Jen

Just a quick reply to say don't panic and buy loads of stuff for this age as if you don't end up with this age group for whatever reason, you may have wasted your money.

When I have met parents with babies 6 months, 9 months etc, I have been honest and told them that I don't have a great deal of baby toys to hand but I will get them all out if I start caring for that age. I do have loads of baby things myself that I have kept for my next baby(or babies) so I just tell them that they are in the loft/garage.

Maybe you could write a list of what sort of things you would get if you were to care for this child?

Having said all that, you know I'm new so you probably want advice from someone who is more experienced.

Good luck for Monday!!

H x

Hiya Hellybelly!

Dont be silly, you are much more experienced than me! Any advice is great honestly!

I didnt keep any of my baby stuff as we said 'no more!' although we have changed our minds! Doh!
Anyway, I guess its ok to say that I will get stuff or have stuff in the loft. I could probably get hold of some stuff second hand.

What kind of things would I need? Can you think of anything else?

Thanks again

x

When ds first when to a childminder she had no baby stuff out as her youngest was nearly 3. It was not a problem for me so don't think it would be a problem for the parent either.
I took my own travel cot to her (at my suggestion) but she never used it as he would sleep on her lap.
She had a booster seat instead of a high chair - much cheaper and ideal for an 11 month old.
Don't rush out and buy stuff yet. If he does come to you you can pick toys etc. up 2nd hand easily enough.
You will need:
car seat, buggy, changing mat, booster seat instead of high chair
Can't really think of anything else - a few plastic spoons and dishes??

Just a quick note as I have to go out, Do say that things are in the loft as when they take the place you can always get a few bits, all the parents of my babies/toddlers are happy to provide their own pushchairs, although I now need a double buggy.
My parents also provide their own travel change mats as they are in their nappy bags but i do use my own.
Will post more later.

Thanks Scotlou and kcemum - I think I have a travel cot in the loft actually! Good idea about the booster seat - can you get them from mothercare?

I will wait and see if they take the place first - I am quite excited now at the thought of going out spending! lol!

Will look out for you later kcemum!

Thanks again

Message withdrawn

Ooohh a stairgate! Forgot about that

We have a couple of stairgates in the loft - hoorah!

I may well have a peek on ebay! Thanks for your advice!

Jenum where about are you hun?

I am having a huge clearout of the twins things(they are 21 months)

We have highchairs and toys going a begging if you need them

I'm in West London jambuttie, where are you?

Sorry - meant to put 'thanks!'

No probs- I am in Livingston Scotland out miles away from you.

If you're ever in the area let me know and you can have them though lol

Thanks! I'll let you know if I'm ever passing!

No honestly - thanks! It was v kind of you to offer!

As already recommended, don't buy anything until you are sure that the child will definitely be coming! Good luck for Monday

Thank you!