Which age group do you think is easy to look after?

[mom-in-alberta]

Between 10 months (although preferably walking) and 3 is my favorite age. I like when they start just before the first birthday. That way I can "train" them, for lack of a better word.
I loathe caring for school age. I thought it would be easier, but I would take a cranky toddler over a bratty 5-10 year old ANY day.
I don't mind doing diapers, and the little ones still nap!! Aaahhhhh. Quiet time.
PS> LOVE love love what playfelt said above. If this little guy is here full time, it should not take more than a couple weeks for him to settle down. Longer if he is only part time. Allow him to cry, unless he is hurt or something like that. Pat him on the back, remind him he is okay, and continue on. The more attention he gets from this, the more he will continue! We don't want to be cold and unsympathetic, but it will only make your day harder if he keeps this up!

[Big Buddy]

So interested in the conversation, and so relieved to see the feedback! We have recently launched a toddler program at our previously-preschooler's daycare centre. The staff were all prepped, and we thought it through, of course, but we were all wondering what the heck we were getting ourselves into!
The first toddlers have started arriving this week and it has been lovely! They've been sweet, with big eyes, and lots of exploration. It has actually been a thrill to feel the younger ones pull at my heart in ways that the 3 - 5 year olds just don't need to do.
It's a tough choice for me, to say whether I prefer the preschoolers and their creative engagement with the environment and materials, or the toddlers, and their big smiles and sincere attention to what they're doing, but it sounds like everyone here is in the toddler camp, which is reassuring, and makes me look forward to seeing more of them coming through!
Thanks!

[gcj]

I used to think 3-5 as well. Fairly independent, can do fun activities and crafts, but it all depends on the mix I guess. They can also argue...non-stop. Babies don't argue! I also prefer them older when they were with me from the beginning. I can "mold" them to fit me. When they start older, it can be tougher.....dependin g on where they're coming from.