Today I was talking to a friend about what a saving grace our nannies/babysitters have been for us as moms of a (semi)-new baby and a couple older kiddos. I often think it’s silly that I pay (a very special) someone to watch my kids a few hours a week when I could, technically, do all of my writing and networking at night. But today, as my friend and I were talking, I realized having a great babysitter is about a lot more than accomplishing my to do list.
Even if you stay at home (or work from home) with a baby, here are a few reasons it’s wonderful to have a babysitter (be it a young mother’s helper or a professional nanny) you can depend on.
Love, Love, Love
You know how wonderful your baby is, and if you find a caretaker who’s a great fit for your family, that’s just one more person who will shower your little one with attention and affection. The idea of your baby loving someone back who isn’t family can be intimidating. I know because with my first baby I fought this. But with my next two, I embraced it, and they both have amazing relationships with people who love them dearly because of it. (How could I have thought that would be a bad thing?)
A Change of Scenery
Not only do you get a break from your daily routine, your baby does too. Other people play differently, sing different songs, point out different scenery and bring an entirely unique perspective to the same setting. While it can be hard to see people doing things their own way (and not yours), you may be surprised by how positively your baby responds.
It’s Good For You To Miss Your Baby
You don’t have to be separated long or often to get some things done—like shower, nap, run errands, go to lunch, do some work. In the end, you’ll not only feel accomplished, you’ll smell that great baby smell more intensely and find your baby’s coos—and even cries—are music to your ears.
It’s Good For Your Baby To Miss You
Once your baby is at an age where they’re mommy (and daddy) conscious, it can be hard to separate. But as they form new relationships, they’ll not only grow more comfortable and confident in your absence, they’ll experience a great sense of excitement and comfort when you return.
Sometimes You Truly Need Help
While we all like to think that we’re invincible—especially when it comes to taking care of our babies—it’s just not true. There will be times when you get sick, or a family member is ailing, or there’s some sort of issue that you really need to handle on your own. Knowing that you have someone you can depend on who will help you and your baby get through the challenging time makes all the difference.
It’s true, only one person can love your baby like you do. And there’s no doubt that you will always be number one. But building relationships with babysitters that can give you support, and give your baby attention, can make a world of difference to even the most hands-on mom.
This post is sponsored by Disney Baby in anticipation of the work I’ll be doing as part of the Disney Baby blogging team—which kicks off very soon. I look forward to sharing these kinds of stories (projects/ideas/etc) with you over there too!
I wholeheartedly agree, Amy. When my son was born, I fought having any help. That changed after those first few weeks when I tried to do it all myself and nearly pulled my hair out. Not pretty.
Today I still feel a tinge of guilt when I drop my son off for summer camp. I’m a SAHM. He *should* be with me all day. I *should* be able to handle that. My writing stuff *should* take second place and as you mentioned be done at night. Then I realize, hey, my son the social butterfly is happy. I’m happy. And I still have my hair. Want to hag on to that as long as possible…
Here’s to happy moms and happy kids! (And great writing, of course.)
Amy…I’ve watched you from across the street start to raise and love 3 very well grounded youngsters. The time that you need for yourself causing you to delegate to others is important to maintain not only your own sanity but to help those kids understand that YOU need time away to tend to matters. Don’t ever feel guilt that their time with the babysitter replaces time with you. It will only strengthen the routines they have with “Mom” as well as make them more adaptable, more open, and more independent. Their time with you will always be more special than with any other… It’s all good.
I take this as quite a compliment from a mom who is always there to support her kids. And mine. Thank you, Linda!