Did you (will you) leave your older child with friends when in labor? Need advice

krisim

When I go into labor, my best friend will come over and stay with DD1 at our house. I'm a little anxious about this as we just haven't been able to spend much time with my BFand DD1 doesn't know her very well.  We'll see her this weekend, but not sure if we'll see her again before my due date. My mom is a 6 hour drive away and will be coming down as soon as she can.

My BF has babysat other children before, so I'm not worried about that, mostly just that she doesn't know DD's schedule/likes/dislikes. I'm going to type up a cheat sheet for her, but do you think it's overkill if I spell out exactly DD's routine (when she wakes up, gets diapers changed, what she likes to eat, etc...)?

Anything else I should do to prepare?

Army~Wife

I don't think that a cheat sheet is overkill at all. Actually your BF might find it to be a relief. My cousin originally was only going to take DD1 for 1-2 night but ended up keeping her for 3 when I had DD2 actually wanted a full out list. DD1 is on a schedule and that list helped her out a ton. Not only that but because DD1 was kept on her schedule it made it easier for her too (more of the norm). I was worried about how it would all go to, just as you are but it worked out just fine. Your DD will actually probably love having a little variety staying with you BF.

We practically sent her whole room with her. PnP (if your DD isn't used to hers then you might want to use it a few times here and there before hand so that it isn't completely foreign), blankie, toys, musical projector, fan, night light, food, strap down booster seat (instead of the high chair), pampers, extra (empty) diaper bag so she could have something to take on day trips to see me or whatnot, bottles, nipples, spoons,....just about anything that she might need that would make her feel less out of place.

Wile you're with you BF this weekend, try to step back as much as possible to give them 1 on 1 time to bond. Let them really get to know each other. I am sure it will be fine. Best of luck!

Mama Jan

I had a repeat c/s so DS1 stayed 4 nights at my parents' house.  He has always seen my mom regularly and their house is like a second home to him so I wasn't worried about that.  We did do "practice" sleepovers in the months leading up to delivery so he would be used to sleeping there also.

I didn't feel the need to do a cheat sheet for my mom since she knows him so well.  But I have been known to write out a whole sheet for babysitters who don't know my kids (esp. before DS1 could communicate clearly).  I don't think it's at all overkill to do that for your friend.

Is there anyway she can come hang out with you a few more times just so your LO will be more comfortable with her?  I'm sure she'll warm up if you can't, it would just make the time easier for your DD.