Getting A Babysitter/Daycare

You carried your baby in your belly for 9 months...and now you are going to leave him under someone else's care?!?

Yes...leaving your baby for the first time can be scary and overwhelming.

The first time I left my son it was for a few hours so my husband and I could have dinner together.  We left him with my mom.  It felt so weird to be without him...and I was undeniably a nervous wreck.  (A glass or two of wine later I was much more relaxed...)

Whether you are going back to work or just need someone to babysit occasionally, having a trustworthy babysitter/childcare is a MUST.

Do your homework.  Ask around.  Interview.  Check references.  Repeat.  Never Settle.

Ask yourself what your needs are.  Do you need someone to babysit every day when you go back to work?  If so, what is your best option??  In home child care?  Someone who comes to your house?  Or a child care center??  

There are pros and cons to each.  Lets elaborate...


In Home Child Care:
This person has children come to their home during the week.


PROS:
There hours are typically set, but may allow for some flexibility.
May provide flexibility in payment when not present.
Generally, they are licensed in-home day care providers.  (Check into this...there are pros and cons to this situation.)
Allows for more of a 'home-like' feel versus Day Care feel.
More personable situation.
Depending on the number of children, the child care provider may be able to drive your child to activities.
Child may be able to obtain healthier sleep habits vs a Child Care Center.


CONS:
Generally the day care provider's own children are at their house so they may receive more attention than your child.
What if your child care provider is sick or her kids are sick??  Child care is canceled and you will need to find alternative plans.
Cleanliness.   Is it as clean as your home or a child care center would be?  (this could be a pro vs con)
May not be a curriculum (for older kids).
Less socialization with kids of same age.
May not have supervision.


Someone Who Comes To Your Home:
This is a babysitter who comes to your home to babysit your children while you are unavailable.


PROS:
Children remain in their own home.
Eliminate outside germs.
Promote healthier sleep habits.
Hours may be more flexible.
May provide flexibility in payment when not present.
Personable.


CONS:
What happens if your child care provider is sick??  Finding alternative plans at the last minute may be difficult.
If you have a falling out, it may be a difficult break up for you and your kids.
Due to the personable situation, it may be difficult to keep the business aspect straight.  
May lack a curriculum (for older kids).
Less socialization with kids of the same age.
No supervision of child care provider.




Day Care:
This is a licensed center that you take your child to.  


PROS:
Curriculum Provided.
Licensed Providers.
More affordable than in-home child care.
Reliable. (no sick days)
Socialization.


CONS:
Several kids for child care providers to split their time between.
Children are exposed to more germs and sick more often.
Day care centers will not provide childcare to children who are sick.
Closed during holidays.
Specific drop off and pick up times.

Since are focusing on Baby 0-3 Month...here are some interview questions to ask your potential Child Care Provider:

1.  Would you pick up baby whenever he/she cries?
2.  What would you do if baby does not stop crying?
3.  What are some ways you would get baby settled and/or sleeping?
4.  Are you aware of SIDS and how baby should be placed for sleeping?
5.  Do you think baby should be held when fed?
6.  Where you would take baby for outdoor time? 

Planning for child care can be scary and should not be taken lightly.   Explore your options and go with your heart.