2 yo - two half days, three half days, two full days??

[PlantDoctor]

We are currently deciding where to send DD when she turns two, and for how long.

For background, I currently work part time in the evenings (from home) after looking after DD all day. It's mentally very taxing work and I get little free time to myself, so we're going to start DD at one of the preschools in our area. (They only take 2+ year olds)

I know it depends on their availability, but in an ideal world, I'd like to send her for three half days or maybe two full days, just so I can get work done during the day when my brain is working properly! I also think it would benefit her massively to spend more time with other children. (She does go to playgroups but as you can imagine most of her life has been in lockdown!).

I'd like to ask you wise people whether you think three half days or two full days would be better for her in terms of settling, and would it be best to start her at two half days then increase after a term? (It's only open during school hours/days.)

Any advice would be gratefully received!

I had the same issue and went for 2 half days and 1 full day. It helps to settle my DD into nursery but also builds up a routine for later on when she starts school. I think just 2 days is difficult to establish a routine. But if you did go for 2 full days then i would suggest breaking the week up by sending her in say tuesdays and fridays. Hope this helps

@Brusselsprouts21

I had the same issue and went for 2 half days and 1 full day. It helps to settle my DD into nursery but also builds up a routine for later on when she starts school. I think just 2 days is difficult to establish a routine. But if you did go for 2 full days then i would suggest breaking the week up by sending her in say tuesdays and fridays. Hope this helps

Thanks! Was she 2 at the time? I would increase her time at nursery as she gets older.

Two or three half days to start and build into full days once settled. In my nursery that age group does a lot in the morning but after lunch most of the children have a nap so while the ones still up have more one to one adult time they have fewer peers to play with - just something to consider, maybe ask the routine with the nurseries you are thinking of using.

Personally I think three half days is perfect for that age. Frequently enough to get used to the environment and build relationships with the staff and other children. But quite short so she doesn't get too tired or overwhelmed. Plus if she still has a nap in the afternoon you get the extra "me time" for free!

Yes she just turned 2. Shes been there for 2 months now and loves it and is settled.

Thanks for your input, guys! It's really helpful to hear opinions!

I'd go with 3 half days, better for settling and gives you a break. I'd add a full day when you feel like it.

I’d go with two full days.

I personally find full days easier as they get to settle into the routine more and have their nap at nursery. Plus pick- ups and drop off are easier. A half day would feel a bit rushed for us, as it can be a pain getting her dressed/ in the car etc.

DD is 3 now and if we pick her up early she gets so upset, as she likes to stay and have her afternoon tea with her friends.

She usually does 3 days 8-5 as I need her there but my preference would be two.

I'd also go with full days - our nursery doesn't offer half days as an option because they say it's too disruptive and takes children longer to settle. The days whizz past when DS is at nursery as it is.

Agree with 2 or 3 half days. She will be exhausted at first and they don't often sleep well at nursery.
If you can I'd start off on half days then increase to full days a few months later if you need to.

I'd go for 2 full days. Will be easier to establish a routine that way.

I'd go for three half days (or even four or five if that is possible for you).

The more days the quicker and easier they settle. It's also easier for them to get to know and go along with the routine if they're going 3+ days a week.

Full days are also fine if that suits you better, but I think half days are better for this age group (full day is a long day at 2).

I'd go with full days, I think they settle more easily as they get used to being there. Also two days in a row I think also helps them settle.

She will be very tired at first but you have a quiet day the next day (hopefully with a long nap!).

3 half days.
It's perfect for us.

@CocaColaTruck1

3 half days. It's perfect for us.

Should have added, no issue settling, routine great. Had no problems.