Do your children like childcare?

[Baabaagreysheep]

My DS (2.5) seems to enjoy nursery. He goes in no problem and doesn’t seem bothered at saying goodbye to me but is always delighted to see me at pick up time and charges over to me in joy saying ‘mummy’s here!’

My own parents used a childminder for me which I didn’t like much, no horror stories but I would have just preferred to be at home. I sometimes wonder if this is how DS feels.

I really hope he genuinely enjoys nursery and gets a lot out of it, I tell myself he does but am conscious that’s for my benefit really!

I have one who is more of an introvert and is a homebody. He isn't keen on childcare. I have one who is a massive extrovert and absolutely loves it. He outgrew me as a playmate at about 2.5 years and desperately needs the company of other children and stimulating activities.

So I would say that it depends on personality.

My child runs into nursery, I don't get a second look but come pick up he's jumping up and down when I'm at the door.
I think he's just genuinely happy to see me and he's missed me!
I know he loves it there.

DD1 (4) has run into nursery since she was old enough to run.
DD2 (13 months) beamed at her key worker when I dropped her off this morning, and leaned excitedly towards her for me to pass her over.

Both are still excited to see us at pick up though - DD2 squeals with excitement and crawls over as fast as she can. I don't think you can take that as meaning that they don't really like it. DD1 is excited when her grandparents pick her up for a day out, and is also happy to see us at the end of the day when we pick her up. Doesn't mean she hasn't had a good day.