Toddler Screaming at Gym Daycare

my daughter was the same way. What I did was talk with the daycare workers and let them know my plan. I just started 20 mins the first day, and each day increase my time by 5-10 minutes. The ladies knew to let her go and I would be there at a certain time. After a few weeks, she would just cry when I initially left, then would get busy and start playing. It could take a few weeks, so try to be patient. And be consistent. Try to go everyday while getting through this.

It's very new for him.. My son and my friends kids were ALL the same way, unfortunately... Just keep bringing and "eventually" he will get used to it... Are they holding him while he's screaming or is he on the ground? Do they take him from you and carry him around to divert his attention? He'll get used to it, promise.. It might take a couple weeks though...

don't give up, keep trying...encourage the daycare workers to try to calm him, I am glad they came and got you...seperation anxiety is very real, but he should do better as he gets used to it...just reassure him you will be back, no prolonged goodbyes, be cheerful when you drop him off...try and relax! I know it is hard but they pick up on your tension. Do not feel bad!!! This happens a lot! I used to work at a daycare and we would have some kids that cried Everyday they were dropped off, then 5 minutes later...not a tear or sign of distress.

I think that is a pretty typical response for most kids at that age. Keep going and it will get easier. Also ask when off peak is (mid day, sundays, etc). He will receive more one on one attention, quiet area, and not as overwhelming to acclimate him. Just be patient, it will work out.

Our gym daycare has a 15 minute screaming/crying policy. I am sure after a while, he will get used to it. See if you can go into the area with him and get him wrapped up in some toys. Our daycare workers at our gym are GREAT with the kids so I haven't had any screaming/crying problems. I also have 2 kids that are generally there together (2.5 and almost 4) so that helps I am sure!

While it is normal it isn't easy! I worked in a gym child care for 13 years and its so hard on the parents and employees when a little one doesn't like it. Now that I have my own kids I realize how hard it actually is on those parents.

Your best bet is to start by taking him in and playing with him, maybe 10-20 minutes and then start to move away from him while he is playing but stay in the room. Then start leaving the room and you can even get a few minutes workout by this time (you should be able to) It may take a long time for him to get used to the new surroundings but he will eventually get that its ok.

Also, get him to know the people that work there the hours you are going to workout. At the gym I now go to there is one employee who happens to be the manager in the child care that my 1yo always goes to but he will fuss a bit when she isn't there.

It takes time but its worth it! Also try to be ready to get your workout in ASAP when you drop him off-have your workout gear on and even warm-up at home or while your in the child care just so you can dive right in and make the most of the time you do get in the beginning.

Another thought is that if you tend to only go once a week or you go every day for a week and then don't go back for two weeks you may have to deal with the same issues over and over again. You'll need to work it into his routine to keep things running smooth. Just like bedtime!

Good Luck and don't give up! You can do it!

keep trying it....& start leaving him on a regular basis at home with Dad. He'll learn coping & separation skills!

Very normal....my son did this when he was little at daycare for two years. It will stop eventually.

OMg this just happened to me and I haven't been back since but I really wish she would stay b/c I want to be able for her to tolerate being there for an hour so I can do a class but she was in someone's lap in rocking chair and wouldn't move!

I don't know....he just may not be able to do it right now. But if he is that upset it is not worth it IMO. My youngest son was fine in the gym daycare up unitl one day he just did not want to do it and he cried so they had to get me. I was never able to bring him back so had to quit :-(

Hi, T.:

He's not ready. D.