Is this normal?

[DiscoDinoBooBoo]

Ive had different issues relating to nursery on and off over the past couple of months, which have been resolved.

However this really bothering me.

DS has always been good at drop off/ pick up. Last week, i was called by the nursery to collect him as he was 'emotional' not sure what this really means? When i asked they just said he needed lots of cuddles etc (this is out of the norm for him, he bombs around all over usually), i decided to collect him and he came home. Absolutely fine? On the trampoline, playing in the garden...etc

Anyway, didnt think much of it and put it down to the fact he had had a busy weekend, maybe a little tired and wanted mummy.

On the mornings of nursery, he helps to pack the bag i discuss with him (just making him aware of whats happening today, not that we have a full discussion), and i say "today we are going to nursery" nods head, "you will be playing with all the other boys and girls" smiling now.

Mentioned key workers name, and full melt down!?

Is this normal? Does he associate her with not being with me and thats why he is upset? Or should i query it?

Im probably being over the top, but i just worry. When i dropped him off today the key worker collected him (fine in the car, fine getting out of the car, saw her and crying), he was sobbing....it was heartbreaking. Normally, he kisses me, waves and pretty much closes the door in my face...

What could have changed?

Any advice welcome.

Talk to the nursery and ask for a change in this worker as DS clearly doesn't gel with them. If no resolution I would change nursery. There is clearly something not right it the relationship with the key worker.

It's not unusual for nurseries to call parents if a child isn't their usual self or is excessively upset. It's usually a sign they aren't well or they are coming down with something.

However, I would be concerned if a child was upset at the mention of a key workers name. It doesn't necessarily mean the key person has done anything wrong, but your child seems to be struggling to form an attachment, so it's definitely something to broach with the nursery management.

I was going to broach it with the nursery, but dont know how? I dont want them to think im implying said key worker has done something. Shes been his key worker since Jan 2021 when he started and hes never been like this...

Also im completely ok with them calling me, ive always said absolutely any concern call me and im there.

I just think its unusual for him to react like this and dont know how to put it to them, also dont want to offend anyone as in "at the mention of your name he cries his eyes out" but also feel like i cant not say anything.

If you're worried about how to phrase it, you could draft an email and send it to the office.

Otherwise, just put in a call to the manager of the nursery. They shouldn't mind at all (and if they do mind, you have bigger issues). You've said yourself that you're not accusing the key person of anything. Sometimes children just can't bond with certain adults (just as us adults just can't take to some people for no discernible reason). The nursery should be happy to help you find a more suitable key person. This does happen from time to time at all settings.