Hi, my 3 year old has recently started preschool. Hes not been to nursery before this. I occasionally leave him with my cousins and their kids or neighbour and kids for an hour or 2 and he loves usually loves it. He doesnt cry, especially at my cousins house whos kids he loves. He literally would refuse to come home with me. Hes a big mamas boy generally and is quite attached, since new born. I work part time and hes used to that, whilst he stays with his nan. Personality wise, he is very shy in new environments, he whispers in my ear instead of talking out loud. Sometimes hes okay, other times he asks to go home and gets really upset when its busy in a restaurant or something. He loves the shopping centre though and arcades which are generally busy.
Last week he started on Thursday and friday for 1 hour 15 mins each time. He went in happily and excited, he was really looking forward to it. The teachers however told me he was absolutely uncontrollable. Both these days I came and he was still crying.
Today (monday) he had a 3 hour session. He cried that he didnt want to change and cried at drop off and other children even cried seeing him. 1 hour in they tried to call me but I didnt recieve any call, they wanted me to pick him up. They said he was uncontrollable, clinging on to 1 specific teacher, and absolutely terrified of the bell. She said she left to use the toilet and he cried hysterically. He did however eventually stop crying but I think it was more towards home time.
Has anyone had any similar experiences? How long did your kids take to settle? It breaks my heart that im doing this to him although I know its not causing harm. Hes such a sweet boy whos kind, caring, loves to play but he doesnt touch any toys at preschool. The teacher said he finally just walked around and watched other kids and spoke to the teacher a little bit. Hes so shy sometimes but also such a scared child. I live with my siblings, husband and parents and he loves everyone and is very happy at home. Hes very much loved and adored.