Due for baby#2 in 2wks, sending toddler to sitter for first time? advice plz.

Question

I've packed his things he'd need, at most 2days worth. I have his diapers and clothes ready, packing his favourite foods, sending him with his favourite dvd, music cd, story book, and stuffed animal. We had a playdate today with our sitter (she has a 2yo, and 7mths), and there's alot that my son isn't used to (he's 16mths) he doesn't have much experience with other kids, let alone a crying baby (which seemed to have been the hardest part of the visit for him). what are other things I can do to help him feel more comfortable when I have to go to the hospital? a great number of playdates isn't possible. the sitter lives on other side of town and I am 38wks, unable to get around much.

this is my only option for when I go into labour, so suggestions about alternatives aren't going to be accepted.

he's never been away from me for more than an afternoon (even then, he's at his dad's) and never away overnight... not to his recollection anyway.

Answer 1

I know you said more play dates are not an option but that I think is your best way to go to get him used to being around her and her children. Maybe leave him for a couple of hours and come back so he knows that when you leave him again you will still be coming back for him. No matter what he will still probably be upset, but this will help to lessen the anxiety because deep down he will know that you will be back for him.  

Answer 2

He will be fine!  When it comes time to drop him off at the sitters, make sure he has his favorite comfort item (blanket, stuffed animal, etc) give him a big hug and kiss and leave.  The longer you stay, the harder it will be for your son.  He may cry, but you are leaving him with a mom of two...she can handle a few minutes of tears.  Congrats on your growing family!!

Answer 3

I would send him to his Dads. This way, you won't worry and your son will be safe. Best of luck.  

Answer 4

KEEP HIM AT HIS DADS THEN

Answer 5

There is probably not much else you can do. He will probably be fine once you leave. Kids act differently when their parents are around. Try not to stress yourself out about it too much either. You have enough on your plate already. He will be fine. Send him with something of yours with your scent on it, so he can carry it around. Or send a picture of yourself with him that he can look at. He will get used to the crying too. It will probably be good for him to be around that seeing as how your new baby will probably cry. Good luck, I hope it all works out for you. & congrats on the baby!

Answer 6

He'll be fine.  He may not like being away from you that long, but your sitter has experience with her own kids so she'll(?) be able to keep him calmed down.  Just make sure he knows why you're going to be away and that when you get back he'll be a big brother.  

Good luck with the new baby!!!  And the big brother!!!

Answer 7

Mine are 16 months apart and it worried the heck out of me leaving my daughter alone with the babysitter also. She has also never spent the night alone.

What the sitter told me was that after the first night, she was fine. Playing with the 2 year old will distract him and probably wear him out a lot which is good for you! Carry a cell phone and after you feelup to it, talk to him over the phone, he will most definetely recognize your voice. Make sure he has stuff from home that "smells" familiar like a blanket or stuffed animals. Have his Dad bring him by the hospital to see you and the baby everyday, pain in the butt I know but it will make you feel better just to see him happy and alive!

Good Luck having them so close in age, I had a lot of sleepless nights and know how hard, frustrating and crappy it can be. I wish you all the luck!

  

Answer 8

See if she can come to your house a couple times a week in the evening. That way he can get use to being around her. At his age he won't understand much when you try to explain anything to him.