Two weeks ago I got a text from our babysitter saying she had taken a full-time job at a day care. I felt a lot of emotions...but mostly dread. I dreaded the thought of finding another babysitter and teaching them the ropes, knowing we would most likely continue to have turnover since it isn't a full-time position. I posted the job on Care.com but started wondering if it was time for day care. As much as I love the security and flexibility of in-home care, we knew FJ would enjoy and benefit from going to day care. When Shelby told me where she was going I began looking into it. I was very impressed from the website... I actually figured it would be out of our price range. Thankfully, that wasn't the case. The rooms are separated by age and filled with age-appropriate learning toys. FJ's room already does some circle time and has a routine.
So, after 16 months of our Galacto Girl being cared for in our home by a babysitter who knows what is safe for her to eat, we are venturing out into the big scary dairy-filled world (aka: daycare). I'm terrified but excited for her to have daily interaction with other kids. We took a tour on Friday and discussed her dietary restrictions with the Assistant Director. Today I talked to the Director and she actually checked food labels for me so we could determine what FJ will be able to eat there and when we will have to bring substitutions.
I still have a lot of questions but I am feeling better about it. Most of the time. Come next Monday I feel like I will be more of a wreck than I was when I returned to work after maternity leave.
Then I remind myself that she's going to have to go out into the big scary dairy-filled world someday. I need to trust that armed with the correct information babysitters, caregivers, parents and teachers will keep my child safe and healthy. You can bet I will be printing out and taking Galactosemia information, ingredients she can and can't have and explain FJ's condition and the importance of avoiding dairy to every employee in the day care. And then I will have to take a deep breath and trust (and probably offer gentle reminders on a regular basis). :)
As for FJ, she's thriving. She talks non-stop and imitates everything (which is a tad terrifying for mama and her sometimes questionable language). We'll be going to Detroit to see the specialist on Wednesday. They will take her GAL1P which determines the amount of the galactose in her blood stream. They say lower is better and want it under 4 (it was 2.9 last appointment) but we also know that low levels don't necessarily mean a challenge-free future. I expect the doctor will comment on how great she's doing but caution that many of the delays won't show up until preschool age. It's always a long, emotionally draining day, but not nearly as scary and overwhelming as our first trip - and for that I'm grateful.
So, after 16 months of our Galacto Girl being cared for in our home by a babysitter who knows what is safe for her to eat, we are venturing out into the big scary dairy-filled world (aka: daycare). I'm terrified but excited for her to have daily interaction with other kids. We took a tour on Friday and discussed her dietary restrictions with the Assistant Director. Today I talked to the Director and she actually checked food labels for me so we could determine what FJ will be able to eat there and when we will have to bring substitutions.
I still have a lot of questions but I am feeling better about it. Most of the time. Come next Monday I feel like I will be more of a wreck than I was when I returned to work after maternity leave.
Then I remind myself that she's going to have to go out into the big scary dairy-filled world someday. I need to trust that armed with the correct information babysitters, caregivers, parents and teachers will keep my child safe and healthy. You can bet I will be printing out and taking Galactosemia information, ingredients she can and can't have and explain FJ's condition and the importance of avoiding dairy to every employee in the day care. And then I will have to take a deep breath and trust (and probably offer gentle reminders on a regular basis). :)
As for FJ, she's thriving. She talks non-stop and imitates everything (which is a tad terrifying for mama and her sometimes questionable language). We'll be going to Detroit to see the specialist on Wednesday. They will take her GAL1P which determines the amount of the galactose in her blood stream. They say lower is better and want it under 4 (it was 2.9 last appointment) but we also know that low levels don't necessarily mean a challenge-free future. I expect the doctor will comment on how great she's doing but caution that many of the delays won't show up until preschool age. It's always a long, emotionally draining day, but not nearly as scary and overwhelming as our first trip - and for that I'm grateful.
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