Church Childcare Behavior!

N.,
I am a 2 year old teacher at our church and I can tell you that in addition to being an incredibly common phase most 2 year olds go through, it's also been a lot of change for the little guy. As kids grow, they notice more than they used to, so I'm sure he noticed the changing of rooms, then changing back. The more things change, the more insecure kids can become. But, they're also very resilient creatures! My best advice to you is just establish a VERY consistent routine with drop off and pick up. If you want to cuddle him and spend a while in the room with him before you leave, just be prepared to do it every single time. If you'd prefer to have a quick hug, kiss, pass to the teacher, see you soon sort of departure, then just jump in with it. If he doesn't make it through the service, that's okay - give it time. Each time you come pick him up though (even if he's crying like crazy), just make sure you're putting the positive forward. Ask him, "Did you have fun?" "What did you play with?" that sort of thing. You don't want him to feed off of your anxiety because that just continues his fears and insecurities. Also, be sure to establish a good relationship with his teacher. If he see you smiling and talking with her, then he'll relax more with her when you're not there. After all, if mommy likes her, she can't be all bad, right? Hang in there. Be patient and consistent and he'll come through with flying colors! :)

My son would do similar things at that age up till about 4. It would just go in spurts. It would take about 3 times then he'd get over it for a while. I think they are just growing and becoming aware of being away (even for that short time) etc... If the staff can have patience with him and if you can not stick around too long then it might help him to adjust. Drop and go! Come back as soon as you are able for a while until he realizes again that you do come back! ;)

It could be terrible twos but sounds more like he's afraid of the fire that occurred. Maybe you need to reassure him that he's ok and it's ok to be in the church. You should try staying in the room with him for a while a couple of times so he knows that it's ok and then gradually sneak out when he is playing. I wouldn't make this a habit or you won't ever get to go to service but just once or twice so he can see that it's fun to be in there.

It may be both (the fact that he's 2 now and the change at the church). Two year olds go through phases and can have anxiety when their routines change. To us, changing classrooms seems like no big deal but if he knows anything of the fire, this could have been enough to cause the crying and fits. My son went through a terrible bout of anxiety when his little sister was born and he started Mother's Day Out. At the time, I considered the change a major factor but wasn't certain this is why he was acting crazy. They aren't able to communicate it to you and don't actually know what is causing them to feel out of control. It just happens and is part of the learning process. Fortunately, he is back in his old classroom and I would create a very specific routine at drop off (same snack, same hug, same kiss, same amount of time you stick around. It might take a couple of months but he will eventually come out of this. Although, brace yourself for more phases. :)