I had one who took 4 weeks...it is very hard when they cry all day! However, it is normal for some kids unfortunatelyI kind of get where the mom is coming from...he is not crying at home, so she doesn't really know what she can do to help. It will take time for him to feel secure with you and the other kids. Try sitting on the floor with him and gradually moving farther away bit by bit until he feels secure playing on his own. It is hard for them to just be plunked down in the midst of the busyness. Sometimes they need a lot of reassurance. Hang in there!