I recently posted as my DS1 is due to start nursery next week and his settling in sessions have really not gone well as he remains upset the entire time. He is at his happiest at home with mum and dad, and he is very cautious of new environments and new people. He needs a lot of affection and reassurance before feeling more confident to explore independently. We knew nursery was going to be a big challenge for him but now it's a reality, it's a huge worry that it's just not for him.
I have discussed the alternative option or a childminder with DH. We both work within the criminal justice system in a frontline child protection role and so are naturally more heightened to concerns of this nature. I feel that perhaps the environment of a childminder might be better suited to our DS as it's likely to be quieter, more like home life, and more attention/affection. My DH has raised concerns, however, about not being able to effectively risk assess as we have no control over who enters that home environment and no safeguards if the one childminder working alone is not doing the job effectively. The thinking with nursery therefore being that more than one member of staff to increase chances of safeguarding and security measures to prevent any randoms.
None of these settings are without risk, I know that only too well. But I would like to hear other's opinions on this please.