Advice for Leaving Young Kids for a Week

Updated on February 25, 2010
A.C. asks from Keller, TX
4 answers

Ok---We're finally getting to go on our honeymoon (yeah over 4 years later, but we didn't go into debt over it). But I have a 3 year old and a 12 week old!!! My 3 year old is very independant and very excited about getting to stay with my friend & her son, and then with my mother (all in another state)...but he's never spent the night without me (except when in the hospital with the 2nd baby coming, but then he was with his dad). The baby is.....just a wee baby! But noone I'd trust more than my mom or friend, so that's not an issue--they'll be well cared for. Does anyone have advice/suggestions on what I need to pack, do, etc in preparation for this? My mom doesn't have a lot of money so I have packed up a "movie night" basket with 2 rootbeers, each of their favorite theater candies, a box of popcorn, and a new movie that neither has seen. I also packed like 200 tokens for Chuck E Cheese, and my own baby first aid kit. Plans for the week include their first sleep over (with sleeping bags and a tent, but indoors), attending a friend's soccer game, going to Chuck E Cheese, having a movie night, watching the ships go by, and going to feed alligators. Obviously this is all for the 3 year old. The baby is happy with being held, cuddled, walked, and in his swing. I will include plenty of money for whatever may come up. But am I missing anything? I'm nervous!

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So What Happened?

Thanks! I wrote their basic schedules/routines, info on medicine, etc and put it all in a folder. Wrote a note just in case someone needed to go to the doctor, included the insurance card, and the cash. Nothing bad happened, they had a great time getting lots of attention, and we had an awesome time. YAY!!! It all went without a hitch!

More Answers

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M.C.

answers from Washington DC on

Some things to consider.
In case more are needed...
- writing down the type of formula used, what stores carry it, etc.
- writing down the type of diapers you use and the size

- leave a medical authorization letter for each kid giving Mom and friend permission to seek treatment, if needed.
(ex. my 12y old nephew was visiting alone, fell and really scraped up his arm. grandpa needed the note for authorization to take him to the dr. since his mom was in West VA.)
- be sure to leave a copy of your medical insurance card (both sides) with Mom/friend. (same reason as above)
- your pediatrician's info.

Have fun.
M.

1 mom found this helpful
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G.T.

answers from San Francisco on

Just relax.

If you included some money, your mom and best friend can face whatever situation (missing diapers/formula/onesies)

We made a one-month road trip across USA with my husband last fall (my son was 2 1/2 and my daughter was 6 months). They were in France with my parents and just enjoyed life and had fun!

Pack the necessities (diapers, milk, clothes) as well as entertaining toys (blocks, books, puzzles) and they'll be fine.

As Megan wrote, also prepare a medical authorization form (we always have one ready for babysitters...) stating that XXX is authorize to make decisions in case of emergency if you cannot be reached. Include the phone numbers where you can be reach, name and contact information of you pediatrician, insurance details, any allergy, special condition, current medicine they are taking... Just in case.

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D.P.

answers from Pittsburgh on

Other than writing down your baby's basic feeding schedule, I think you've got it covered. These women are both moms and will deal with anything unusual that comes up. Sounds like your 3 yo has quite a lot planned! Maybe he won't wanna come home! :-) Have a great honeymoon (and congrats on the "no debt" aspect!).

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M.J.

answers from Sacramento on

I wouldn't worry about it one bit! We've gone on vacations without the kids and they do great. They're off having fun, too, so they're distracted enough not to really notice we're not there. Plus, we would call every day to check in.

I would just be sure to send along any comfort items from home for your oldest. Favorite stuffed animals, books and DVDs can help him feel settled in to his new environment.

Relax and have fun! Getting this break will do wonders for your marriage, making you better parents in the end. Enjoy!

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