Going to School, Need to decide on best option for DS

[cakemama579]

Hi Everybody!

I have a 2 1/2 year old DS, and when he was born I was inspired to go back to school and become a labor and delivery RN. I've spent the last 2 years working very part time and filling prerequisite coursework part time, as well as being a SAHM for my son.

So I've finally been accepted into the 2 year RN program to start this fall, and I'm having a hard time both coming to terms with leaving DS in the hands of strangers, and I am also having a hard time deciding which option is best for him-- any advice and/or opinions are greatly appreciated.

Our choices for our DS are to either enroll him in the local Montessori school, where he would be stimulated with activities all day and make many friends. The drawback being a very set schedule for pick up and drop off times, and coordinating that would be like a very finely tuned dance between DH and I. He would have 3 long days of 8:30 to 3:15 pm, and 2 short days of 8:30 to 11:30. It is a 5 day a week program, and despite of whether or not I am in class, he will have to attend school regularly.

The other option is to go to a trusted day care provider. She is a farther drive than the school, but I can p/u and d/o my DS whenever is convenient for me, and he would only have to go 3 days per week at most. There is only one other boy in the daycare at this time. While it happens to be his little buddy that lives down the street, he won't be meeting any other new faces (which I definitely want for him).

This is a huge transition for us and I am awake most nights worrying that I am making the right decision. I have overthought to such an extent that I feel like bagging the whole thing and just staying home for another year! (Not a realistic option, however).

Thanks so much for your insight,

Sarah

[Bluebird9]

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Edited by Bluebird9 - 11/27/11 at 10:07am

[LynnS6]

I'd tend toward the Montessori for a couple of reasons:

When are you going to study? If you're in school full time, you're going to need 30-40+ hours a week to do that. Really. So, even though you won't be in class all that time, you can use that time to your advantage, so that when you're home you can be present for your child.

Second, a routine is good for your and your son. A lot of things are changing. A predictable schedule would be a good thing. If he never knows when you're going to pick him up, he'll have a harder time transitioning.

[SoulCakes]

I totally agree with the above. The Montessori program will be enriching on multiple levels, and having the routine is great. Plus, you'll definitely enjoy having quiet time to study.

Coordinating pick up/drop off usually seems intimidating at first, but once you've done it for a week or so it won't seem like such a big deal.

[cakemama579]

Thanks so much for the support everyone! And good luck to you too, Bluebird! (By the way, if you ever want to send me a private message since we're in the same boat, I can offer TONS of moral support!)

You all offered exactly what I wanted to hear, and in my heart knew what was right. We've decided on Montessori, and remain optimistic that it is the best choice for our fam. Thanks again!!

[Drummer's Wife]

I think you'll be happy with Montessori. Congrats on getting into nursing school! I am applying this winter (after fall semester). My 3 yo is also starting at a Montessori school in August, after being home with me since he was born. I think it will be great for him, and talking to the staff when I went to pay the deposit reassured me that it really is an awesome program.

[cakemama579]

Drummer's Wife that is fantastic! I hope you get in... if your school is anything like mine, you won't hear if you got accepted until May or June-- it is such a painful wait!! So I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

I hope your child enjoys the program-- the more I think about it, the more I wish my own parents had put me in a school like the Montessori school we're sending our DS to. Good luck to everyone!

[cchrissyy]

just wanted to chime in with well-wishes and agreement on the other advice. good luck!