[Aimless]

2 year old DS2 has been going to alternate care since he was 1. To this day, he goes to 3 different carers. He alternates between my parents and ILs 1 day a week, and goes to a family day care 2 days a week. The other days of the week, he's with me.

With the exception of my ILs, DS2 hates going to other alternate care. It puts him in such a bad mood when I tell him and he throws a tantrum. Dropping him off is a nightmare.

He likes my ILs because they pretty much give in to all his demands and have the TV on all day. With my parents and the family day care, there's more discipline there.

With my parents, he sulks for the first 10 to 15 minutes but has a good time by the end of the day.

With the family day care, I'm a little more concerned because apparently, he doesn't talk or communicate much. Dropping him off at family day care is worse.

DH, who drops him off at the family day care, says that DS2 seems to have a good relationship with her and that he gives her a hug when he says goodbye. But he's eager to go and has his bag ready as soon as DH appears.

It's been 1 year now with this family day care and I'm getting a bit worried about DS2's reaction. Is it something I should worry about? Should I start looking for another family day care?

[charlottesmum04]

I would seriously talk to your educator. I was on the whole it can take awhile to settle in until you said he's been there a year. Your educator should be able to tell you how settled he is there. Do you have the opportunity for one of you to 'drop in' on the FDC at a time during the day. Are you getting photo's about his day? Does he seem happy in those photo's?

As a next step i would approach the co-ordinator of the service with your concerns and ask for some advice. I know if i was in a similar circumstance ( and I have had issues with some kids not settling or behavioural stuff) all I would have to do is ring my co-ordinator and she would come out to try and make some suggestions.

Finally remember our job is to support your family and child. Just like you us educators want your child to be settled and happy.