Debating when I should start DD in daycare/preschool?

DD is almost 17 mo and will be 22 mo when #2 arrives. When I return to work one day a week MIL will babysit but has already told us she can't handle 2 kids. Since DD will be about 2 at the time I'm thinking this would be a good opportunity to start part time preschool or daycare (just not sure which is a better fit yet).

Now the question is when to start her. I know you don't want to throw too much change at a child at once (new bedroom, new baby, starting school). If all goes as expected, I will have a 3 month maternity leave. I'm wondering if it would be best to keep her home during this then start her when I return to work or if I should start her a month or so before the baby arrives. She will be going only 2 days a week, one long day from 730-530 but the other day I will be home so I would make it as short as possible. Sorry so long!

Does anyone have any experience with this?

Debating when I should start DD in daycare/preschool?

I think your plan sounds solid. Start her before so you BOTH can adjust and hopefully it will be routine for her and you. Id talk it up and make a trip with her to a daycare. Its exciting all HERS. Baby can't come because this is uniquely hers.

Good Luck

Debating when I should start DD in daycare/preschool?

I think starting before the baby is born is a good idea for both of you to get used to the adjustment before all the other changes happen.

Re: Debating when I should start DD in daycare/preschool?

I think starting DD before would be best. I did it after with my DD, but she had some separation anxiety in the beginning.