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Moms At Work
Making A Smooth Transition
By Mary Dixon Weidler
Instead, parents must search diligently, wading through the numerous choices and individuals, to find the people and the situation that will provide their children with care, encouragement, companionship and security. In short, parents are looking for a partner in raising their children.
The first step in securing quality childcare may be to determine the type of care you want for your child. Choices include:
A Family Member
-- This type of care usually assures that the caregiver shares your values, and the child already knows the person. However, it may be difficult to speak up about problems with the care since hurt feelings and strained relations may result. Your child may also be isolated from other children in this set up. In-Home Care
-- A nanny, au pair or babysitter who comes to your home gives you a great deal of control in the child's schedule and activities, and the child may be happier in an environment where he is comfortable. Also, he is exposed to less illness than in a daycare situation. However, an in-home caregiver is an employee, so you are responsible for tax paperwork. Your child is isolated from other children, the family may suffer a loss of privacy, and you need a contingency plan for when the caregiver needs a day off. Family Daycare
-- Many parents take their children to a home where other children are also cared for. The settings here are warm and informal, hours are usually more flexible than at established centers, and the costs are usually lower. However, these sites are not regulated, sometimes aren't educational, may be lacking developmental activities, and a backup arrangement is necessary for when the caregiver is ill or on vacation. Commercial Daycare Centers
-- This may be the most reliable cre because the center's staff ensures adequate coverage when one staff member becomes ill. Centers must maintain state standards, and most offer a variety of educational materials and activities. Unfortunately, many daycare centers cannot take a sick child, so a back-up arrangement is also necessary. In addition, turnover at these centers is usually high, which may be unsettling to children.Want to see more?
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