I enjoyed meeting up with a lady the other day and she recalled how I had been her Plunket nurse many years ago. Her baby was called Fleur and at that time, my daughter – Fleur- had just turned 21, so we had a special connection!

My Plunket training was completed before I was married and although this was an advantage in some ways in caring for my three, nurses tend to imagine all sorts of things being wrong sometimes when their children are unwell. But it was a special time!

Although thoroughly enjoying looking after my own babies, I vividly remember the awful tiredness in the early weeks. Being at home and responsible for the 24 hour care of helpless babies is a challenge. Yet, there are fun times too. I remember the mixed feelings I had about going back to work part time, but two children were at school and a wonderful next door neighbour offered to look after my youngest son who was just two and a half.

So, finding a good day care just has to be a part of life. However, the standard of day cares is generally very good. I know many mothers have guilt feelings about returning to work but often there is no alternative. The preschool years are precious times and you will want the best for your young family.

Here are some ideas about choosing the best possible day care for your baby or toddler:

• Have a talk among your friends to see which day cares they are using for their small children. Ask questions to ensure they are happy with their choices.
• Which would be best – a day care near your home or one near your work?
• Make a list of potential places and pay them a visit.
• Do the children at each one seem happy – and the staff too?
• Ask about the ratio of staff to children and find out if there is a low staff turnover.
• Meals – what is the daily menu?
• Check the outside area and see what facilities are available for play.

Once you book your child in and the place is available now, your plans are all set. Most day cares keep a diary of the child or baby’s activities over the day. In the event your child is sick, you will need to have a carer available or be able to take time off from work yourself.

A big change is going to take place in your family’s life, but I am sure you will feel reassured by having observed ‘happy campers’ in the day care you have chosen. Try not to feel guilty about leaving your baby or toddler in care. You are broadening their world and they will benefit from mixing with others and making new friends.