When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

I think I'd like to TTC for #2 when DS doesn't need 100% of our attention. When can they play on their own and not need to be watched ALL the time? 2yo? 3yo?

I really wonder how moms of 2 under 2 do it! I can't imagine running after a toddler AND taking care of a newborn at the same time.

Message edited 11/5/2009 1:52:53 PM.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

Every child is different so you will get different answers.

Some kids that I know at 2 want their parents to play with them - some would rather play alone.

At almost 2.5 I can tell you that I do obviously go into other rooms from my son, but at all times I am in tune to what he is doing. I listen for all sounds - and anything that will make me jump at any second.

He is very independent (always really has been though)

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

I think it depends on the child. I was able to trust and be comfortable with my DD being alone for a few minutes at about 2.5 years old. Meaning I might hop into the shower for 5 minutes and feel that she was behaving herself.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

My girls have always been independent with their play. They have been free playing on their own since they could crawl at 6 months old. They are 2 and 3 years old and I have NEVER followed them while they play. I just keep an ear out and listen to them. I know the difference in fighting cries and hurt cries.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

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Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

DD is 27 months & she plays independently often in her room; she does puzzles or plays with her dolls or reads. I just keep an ear out.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

Posted by KateDevine

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Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

I'm not sure what you mean exactly?
That you can leave the room for extended periods of time?
My DC are 10 months and they play independently. They are allowed in one area of the den, and they crawl all around and do whatever.
I am not on the floor following them around.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

Maybe 18 mos he played in his room solo.

at 2, he definitely plays upstairs solo while we are downstairs.

I have chains on the doors and he's not allowed to pee unless he tells one of us.
(he's fallen into toliet more then once )

I check on him every 15 minutes.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

My DD is 2 1/2 and one who plays on her own and I really have no worries about her. She is fully potty trained (been since 2) and very independent.

I dont need to supervise her 24/7...I think I just got lucky.

Message edited 11/5/2009 3:10:27 PM.

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

My DS is 26 months. He will play on his own with no problems whatsoever HOWEVER, I am finding this age to be harder in some ways b/c he is so all over the place, constantly running around and into things he shouldn't be - always wants to be out and about etc. Being pregnant right now I actually think it might be easier if he was younger, less mobile and i could just stick him in things

Re: When does a child not need to be supervised ALL the time? Trying to figure out timing for TTC for #2.

I'm not quite sure that you would have to be leaving the older child alone much. You can take care of a new baby in the same room where your older child plays. My son definitely likes to have someone in the room with him but he does not need someone to occupy him at all times.