I am really torn over the right childcare option for my two kids (10mo and 2.5 yo). I've just gone back to work full time after my second mat leave. My eldest has been at nursery about a year and a half and seems to like it, but I worry full time is a bit much for her. My youngest has just started part time and will be full time from March. The nursery is only about 100m away and very good, but very expensive, and I worry it's not quite right. My daughter is usually excited to go but by the end of the week just wants to stay home. My son is still so young and I feel so guilty sending him, plus I can see his 'routine' is going to fall apart there. Mostly though, even though we're only two weeks in, I feel like I barely see them - the morning is all just the rush to get them out the door, the evening is a rush to get them fed and ready for bed. So, we are considering a nanny.
Pros of nursery (as far as I can see): it's close and they get to mix with other kids. Plus, it's out of the house which can be good for us because we work from home (me 3 days a week and DH 5 days a week). They do lots of great messy play, sensory play, dancing, etc, and have a cute playground. And when they reach pre-school it will have some educational elements. My eldest is settled and has friends there.
Pros of nanny: it's cheaper, insanely enough. There's less stress getting out the door or rushing home from work. The kids can stick to their normal routine. They can help with 'bed time' or getting ready for bed when one parent has to work late. When my eldest goes to school the nanny can provide wrap around care, which we're going to need.
Anyone with any experience of either (two kids in nursery or at home with a nanny) able to add any more in either camp? And does anyone here have a nanny and work from home? Our house is not huge - we have one study and I work in the kitchen, so would need to make space in one of the rooms somehow. Or commute additional days.
TIA!