There were about 5 babies in the baby room and three nursery nurses- I was a bit alarmed at first as they all looked about 15 (I'm sure they were probably older IYSWIM) and didn't like the thought of F being looked after by teenage girls but as I sat with F I observed how good they were with the babies- giving them clear messages and enforcing bounderies. For example when one of the older babies crawled up to F and hit her on the head with a rattle (F didn't seem to mind and was actually quite funny ) none of them smirked or snigger (unlike me ) but the very clearly said 'No' and shook their heads and then disracted him away from F with another toy.

Another thing that I was a bit worried about was how filthy the babies' clothes looked (even though the room was spotless) but I put this town to weaning- as I had no expereince of how mucky they get with food yet! later on someone expalined that they always change their clothes later in the afternoon.

I then went and sat in the hall for half an hour and left F in there (but I could be called back in if necessary). They gave me clear instructions on what to do when I left the room- eg say goodbye rather than just walking off hoping she wouldn't notice. I didn't hear a peep out of her when I was sitting outside and when I returned she was happily sitting on one of the worker's kne smiling and cooing at a toy that was being waved in front of her. She acknowledged me but didn't seem bothered either way IYSWIM- which is a good thing

I had to fill out lots of forms with F's routine etc on (the manager didn't seem to thnk it was a problem that she doesn't really have a proper routine yet) and I also explained to the manager that F didn't really like bottles much. I was reassured when she said they were used to struggles and they even had one baby once who would only be fed by one of the workers. I also had to write what F calls her grandparents, what are pets' names are etc in case she makes cards or anything.

All in all it was a very postive experience. F seemed to love it and the workers were all really nice. I thought it would be much harder to leave her (even though it was only half an hour and I was outside) but it was easy- and I think I'll be a lot better than I thought I would when she goes all day next week. Besides, I'm looking forward to having my hair cut on that day

F was born in March and I am returning to work in August for 4 days a week (she will be nearly 5 months). Dh works Saturdays so has a day off in the week- this means F will be in nursery 3 days a week (Mon-Weds).

We have a trial session this Monday where I go with her and then on Thurs I'll leave her for an hour. Then from the following Monday throughout July she will be going all day once a week- to get us both used to the idea. She'll start her 3 days per week in August.

The thing I'm most worried about is feeding. F is exclusively breastfed and won't take a bottle easily- I'm hoping if I'm not around she'll bite the bullet (or suck the teat) and go for it. I'm going to try my best to keep her fully breastfed and express milk at work. It's going to be tricky!

I'm not so worried about how she'll be- she's a sociable little girl who loves the attention of other people and the bustle of busy places so I think she'll be in her element. She's still at an age where she doesn't mind being separated from me- so that shouldn't be so hard either. All in all she's an easy baby and I'm sure that the nursery will be delighted to have her (but I would say that ).

Anyway- I'll update you on Monday after our trial session. Wish us luck!!!!

Cxxx