We started using P&E when our son was about 2 weeks old. First, a few weeks for overnight care so that we could get sleep. Second, once our son was on more of a schedule, about 15 hours a week of daytime. We mostly had the same sitter, Natalia, though Portia filled in a few times and Kim sat twice on the weekend. All three ladies are absolutely wonderful!
One I went back to work, we put my son in daycare. However, we quickly realized it wasn't our ideal situation. I hated seeing him at four months old being juggled around by several different caretakers each week, suffering from a nasty cold the entire first month, etc.. I understand daycare has its benefits as well, but I decided to call Portia to see whether anyone could fit the hours we needed. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that she did have someone in mind--herself!--and that the hours worked perfectly with her schedule. The best thing is that I work from home, so I can see my son in between appointments and know that he is being cared for very well.
I also appreciate that Portia will make suggestions involving sleep-training, scheduling, feeding, etc. As a first-time mom, I'm always trying to sort through the conflicting information out there. It's nice to have someone else with experience (but not the nosiness/pushiness of a family member!) to offer opinions and observations.
In general, Portia is professional, responsive, and reliable and my son is very happy to see her every day. read more