Going
back to work after your maternity leave can be a very upsetting
experience, both for you and your multiples. Before even considering
it you have to find a daycare provider or center that will work with
you at keeping your twins happy and safe. If you're twins are already
on some type of schedule you want to make sure that it is honored
when you're not around.
When
interviewing a daycare provider or a babysitter in his/her home, make
sure that the area where your children will spend their time is a
clean and well lit. Remember that although you will only be visiting
for a while, your babies will be in that environment for most of the
day. You want to make sure you go over YOUR schedule with the
provider and that he/she can assure you that they will do their best
to maintain it. Don't be upset if it takes a while. Keep in mind that
your babies have to get used to this person and environment. This
might take a couple of weeks in many cases.
If
your twins have any type of allergy, it is always very important that
you discuss this with your provider. Leaving emergency contact
information and even a copy of their insurance cards is always a good
way to go. Make sure they are prepared in case your child eats or is
in contact with the allergen.
Always
make sure that your provider knows who will be dropping off and
picking up your twins. If different people will be picking up the
twins and they are not a part of the interviewing process, it is
always a good idea to bring along recent pictures to leave behind.
The morning or afternoon that the twins will be picked up by someone
other than yourself you can always refer to that person's picture.
Even
though you might think that your provider is a pro at what they do,
it is always important to discuss how and when you put your twins
down for a nap. They might have a specific way of being rocked or a
special blanket that they use. Whatever it may be, it is better to be
upfront than have your provider wondering why your twins are crying
but won't fall asleep. I have also found that leaving two shirts with
my smell helps the twins find a little comfort in a strange
environment. This is an important situation that can
the
difference between a happy caretaker and a very stressed one.
Look
around at the other children in the center. Are they happy? Dirty?
Afraid? Do you smell a lot of unchanged babies? You can tell a lot by
just looking at a child. If these children are all in play pens for
most of your visit, then the odds of your twins being in one are very
high. You want to make sure that there is room to play and
comfortable objects around. Look at the outlets, are they covered?
Don't be ashamed about speaking up if something concerns you. This
will more than likely be your twin's second home. You want to make
sure it's as safe as yours!
Last
but not least, follow your gut. If for any reason something just does
not feel right, just thank the person for their time and move on.
There is nothing stronger than a mother's intuition.
