Children in Day Care

I've been forced to leave my two-year old in a Day Care Centre.  Due to the economy, I had to return to work sooner than I had planned.  What tips can you give me to make this easier on us both - practically and emotionally?  - Geraldine, Florida

Buy a cheerful tog bag for your toddler's needs for the day and tell him/her that it belongs to them.  Let them carry it in when you drop them off.  Leave with a kiss and a big smile on your face when you say goodbye.  If you look sad, your toddler will pick up on it and become anxious.  Don't linger, just leave.  The longer you linger, the more painful it is for both of you when you do eventually leave.  Be assured that if your toddler cries when you leave, chances are he/she will have stopped by the time you have reached the corner.  Make it a point never to be late to collect your child.  Nothing is more upsetting than seeing the other parents collect their toddlers and yours is left more and more alone.  In fact, if you can try to get there ten minutes earlier by asking your boss if you can work in those ten minutes each lunchtime.  Label every item of your child's clothing, even shoes.  Develop a friendly relationship with your child's caregiver so that your child will pick up on the happy and positive vibes.  Always remain flexible.  If a close family member or grandparent asks to take your child shopping or out for a treat - give your toddler that break.  Family relationships are more important than strict routines for your toddler's well-being and security.

We were absolutely mortified to find our child had head lice recently!  It all began with one child at my daughter's creche and before we knew it half the school was infected - Shelly, Pt Shepstone.

These outbreaks do occur from time to time.  A good remedy from a pharmacy is recommended (preferably in the form of a spray which is easier to administer) .  There are a few myths I can point out here - there is no need to shave off your daughter's long hair - it is treatable.  Lice can not jump from person to person - they are spread through head-to-head contact and clothing.  Lice are not a sign of being dirty - in fact, lice latch onto clean hair more easily as it is less oily than dirty hair.  Chances are if your child is infected with head lice, you will be too - not necessarily - treat yourselves only if you have itchy scalp and find nits or even crawling lice in your hair.  Now that you have had some experience in treating lice and nits, you can check your daughter's hair regularly for signs of lice infestation.  Remember that any child who has lice should not return to school until they are totally lice-free.