Starting nursery

[aligriff]

Hi, I'm just looking for a bit of support really. My son had his second 45min settling in session at nursery today and was upset by the end of it. I know this isn't unusual but it has made me feel really guilty about the whole thing. He is quite a sociable boy and hasn't really been clingy (now 11m). He is only going two days a week but I can't bear the thought of him being upset for long periods.

He gets upset if he gets too tired and still needs to be given milk, dummy and a cuddle before being put down (he only needs one nap a day and this process takes about 2 mins). The nursery seem to have a system of putting the children down on mats at a particular time for a sleep. It would be great if he would comply with this but just can't see it happening. I've explained about when he has a sleep and how to put him down but get the impression this will go out of the window when he starts. I understand they can't pander too much to each child, but just feeling worried about it. Has anyone got a success story!?

They should really try and accomodate yr sons routine. This is what is done at my nursery. It is only a small room though so easier to manage. Why dont you ring the Manager and express your concerns. Ask her how they are going to manage his sleep times.

Every child is different and especially as hes only a baby he cant be expected to follow a strict routine.(that isnt his)
Hope you get sorted, good luck....

As nurseryvoice says they should try and do what your son is used to, at least initially until he gets used to their routine. My ds (1yo) started nursery about 3 wks ago and the first couple of days he didn't sleep at all and was exhausted when he got home but it has gradually been getting better as he gets used to the surroundings and to going to sleep with other babies there - today he slept for 2 hrs apparently which is about as long as he would sleep at home anyway. So it will probably take your son a while to get used to it but it will certainly help if the nursery follow his routine.

I'm suprised they don't have a proper cot for him as he's so young - at my nursery all the little babies up to about 16/17 months go into proper cots when they're tired, and are rocked/patted/comforted as necessary. The older ones have one nap after lunch on mats on the floor, but there are still enough staff to pat or stroke those who need help falling asleep.

Thanks for your replies. I will have another chat to them when I take him for his first proper day, then see how it goes, I too anticipate him not sleeping at all at least on the first couple of days. It is reasuring what you say about your son cassell. I'd be happier if they had cot too, but I suspect it is due to space considerations. Otherwise the nursery seems very nice and the staff friendly so maybe my fears are unfounded. I feel more empowered now to make a case that he needs comforting to sleep so thanks for that!