XP: when to leave lo w/ babysitter for first time?

BrookeAWestling

Hi, I've never posted on this board before, but will be a WM when my maternity leave runs out at the end of April. But my question is about using a babysitter now. BD and I are considering taking an evening off to catch up with friends. If we do this, we would have to hire a babysitter. Lo will be 7 1/2 weeks, and we would always be within a few miles of the house.

I am a ftm and don't know what is typical? How old was lo the first time you left them with a sitter/first time you plan to do so?

MBandBud

If you can find someone you trust and feel comfortable with, I say the sooner the better.  My only regret when I did it?  That I did not do it sooner.  If you have family, I would use them first just so that you are more comfortable.  If not, maybe try to use another Mom so you can enjoy.  Best wishes!

JG362009

I left my son alone with my dad while my husband, mom and I ran errands within the first week.  The first non-relative baby sitter we had was a friend of mine when my husband and I went out to dinner for my birthday at about 5 weeks.  I had a crazy high level of comfort as a FTM and my thoughts were that no one was going to kill the baby and I would get a much needed break.  I was pumping/bfing and my dad did run out of milk but honestly I got home soon after that and was able to feed him right away -- no big deal at all.  Catch up with your friends and give yourself a break!