If you are a mother, then you know the struggle of leaving your precious newborn for the first time. Figuring out when its the “right time,” or who is the best person to trust your baby with can be a difficult decision- one many of us wish we don’t have to make. The reality is, though, we will eventually run into a time when we will need to leave our sweet bundle with a responsible caregiver. These six tips with make the adjustment as easy as possible for you.
1. Pick Someone You Trust
While this sounds obvious, I mean of course you’ll pick someone trustworthy to watch your child. But, what I mean is not someone competent, but someone you trust will follow your directions and someone you feel comfortable with. This will make all the difference on how your feel while you are apart.
2. Do A Trial Run
If it’s heading back to work that has you stressing then do a test run before the big day. Set your alarm for when you need to get up and practice your soon-to-be new routine. Once you and baby are up and about, and you have an idea what your schedule looks like, you can reward yourself by going back to bed or spending the day at home snuggling. Even if it ends up being a disaster, it will help you figure out what you can do to make this new transition easier.
3. Take Your Time
Plan yourself extra time for the first daycare drop off so you have plenty of time to get comfortable before heading off to work. Or if your sitter is coming to you, make sure to ask them to arrive 30 minutes early so you can go over everything you want them to know and there is no rush saying goodbye to your little one.
4. Leave Instructions
Don’t feel bad about leaving a long list of info you want the sitter to know. This will help them if they are unsure about any of your baby’s needs, and it also means your can relax a little more knowing they are being well taken care of. Remember, if you don’t hear from them, they are doing just fine.
5. Talk To A Friend
Find a friend and talk it out. No one will understand exactly how you are feeling, then another mama. Talk over your fears and concerns with a friend who has already walked this road. Shoot them a text when you get home and have baby back in your arms, they will be your biggest cheerleader.
6. Leave The Guilt At Home
Whether you are returning to work, or you are heading out on a much needed date night, when you drop the baby off, leave the mommy guilt at home too. It’s really not a bad thing to leave your baby with a qualified caregiver so you can work or even have some “me time.”