Nycmum, my #1 is in full day infant care/care care since 2.5 months. The decision was made because 1) can’t find nanny near my house, 2) infant care regulated by MCYS, so anything not right can lodge complaint. Hygiene usually not compromised and 3) more exposure and learning (it also depends on the centre what activities they do with the kids, it may not be a concern for 9 months & below). The first infant care that my #1 attend has water play, arts & crafts, story telling, morning/evening stroll, simple gym cushion, etc. Whether the child will fall sick, I think depends on individual immune system as well. She adjusted well and only caught a cold once and mild HFMD once also. But after I stop breastfeeding, she came down with cold/cough quite often. She however have weak immune to stomach flu, so anyone in the centre got it, she sure will kena but that is when she is 18months or older. Selecting infant care, it is important to ask the teacher/child ratio. MCYS stated 1 to 5 but some center offer 1 to 2 and above. Of course the lower the ratio, the more expensive and more attention given. Check also the kitchen where they prepare the milk, the bath area and what activities they do.
Nanny is good if they are babysitting for one child. Recently, when I enquire, I learnt that some babysit more than one. I’m not really comfortable with that. They are usually more flexible so if need to work late no need to rush.
Caelan is starting infant care this Wed actually. I’m schedule to start work either 4 Jan or first week of Feb. So the next 2 weeks is adjustment for us.
Stella, hope yr bb gets more comfortable with you soon. Don't give up and be positive, just keep trying. I'm sure bb will prefer you in time to come.
