When I first found out I was pregnant with our second baby, I had this image in my head: my toddler and newborn bonding at home, sweet sibling cuddles, and me juggling both kids like a pro— because for whatever reason, I feel like I can tackle just about anything life throws my way. But then reality hit. A toddler, a newborn, and postpartum recovery all under one roof 24/7? It’s a lot. That’s when I realized daycare wasn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Rajveer’s pediatrician highly recommended that we don’t pull him out of daycare because it’s his outlet to learn and be social with his friends.
We are well aware that daycare has its drawbacks. The constant cycle of runny noses, coughs, and whatever bug is going around this week or that week. Rajveer has had his share of pink eye, fevers and rashes. Every time he comes home with a sickness, I am prepared for the possible domino effect—him passing it to me and then my husband, and soon, the baby. It won’t be fun. It won’t be easy. BUT still 100% worth it.
Why daycare is a lifesaver
First, let’s talk about the obvious: toddlers need an educational and social outlet. At daycare, Rajveer gets to play, learn, and interact with kids his age. He thrives in that environment. It’s hard to replicate the same level of engagement and stimulation at home, especially when I’ll be busy with a newborn who needs constant feeding, changing, and soothing. Daycare gives Rajveer a routine, and trust me, a happy, engaged toddler makes life easier for everyone.
Second, it gives me some breathing room. I’m going to need those few hours during the day to bond with the baby, catch up on sleep (if that’s even a thing), or simply take a shower. I also want to make time for working out and running again! Daycare provides that little bit of time I need to recharge and focus on the baby without feeling guilty about neglecting my toddler.
The golden question: What about the germs?
Yes, germs are a thing. And yes, newborns are more vulnerable to illnesses. It’s scary to think about what Rajveer might bring home, but here’s how I’ve made peace with it:
1. Germs help build a strong immune system. I mean obviously I’m not thrilled about the idea of my new baby getting sick but at the same time I realize it’s almost inevitable. I’ll do what I can to prevent my baby from catching any sort of sickness before they’re vaccinated— this includes washing hands, sanitizing toys, and maybe even enforcing a “no kissing/touching the baby” rule.
2. We can’t live in a bubble: Realistically, even if I pulled Rajveer out of daycare, we’d still encounter germs at the grocery store, doctor’s office, playground, etc. Like I said… inevitable.
3. It’s temporary! The illnesses come and go, but the benefits of daycare— structure, socialization, and my sanity— last much longer!
At the end of the day, keeping Rajveer in daycare is a decision we’ve made for the aforementioned reasons along with his pediatrician’s sound rationale. It helps him stay happy and busy, gives me time to adjust to life with a newborn, and keeps our household running a little more smoothly. Will there be sick days? Absolutely. But that’s a trade-off we’re willing to accept.
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