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Postpartum Wellbeing

Has anyone started daycare around 16-17 months, and how do I cope with the fear of leaving my baby?

Moms share that daycare can be a surprisingly positive, socialising experience - starting with short hours and building up - and advise thoroughly assessing the daycare's facilities since every child is different.

💡Quick Answer

  • Daycare around 16-17 months can be a positive, socialising experience
  • Start with short hours (3-4) and build up as the child settles
  • Every child is different - watch how yours responds
  • Thoroughly assess the daycare's facilities before admitting

🤔What Parents Worry About

Parents are terrified that putting their toddler in daycare means abandoning them or that the child will be unhappy and unsafe. The community reassures with a real example of a child who started with short hours and ended up loving daycare and the socialising it brought - while grounding it in the practical advice to vet the facility thoroughly and remember that every child adjusts differently.

Community Answers from Moms(1)

Here's what moms in our community shared based on their own experience.

  1. 1

    A friend started daycare around this age with a surprisingly good experience - beginning with 3-4 hours then moving to 9-6 because her son enjoyed the daycare and socialising. All kids are different, so assess the daycare and its facilities thoroughly before admitting them.

About These Answers

The information shared on this page comes from real experiences of mothers in our community. While we strive to provide helpful insights, this content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician, healthcare provider, or other qualified medical professional for any questions regarding your child's health or development.

Last reviewed: June 17, 2026

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Has anyone started daycare around 16-17 months, and how do I cope with the fear of leaving my baby? | Real Mom Answers | Mom Insider