Child Care: What's Hot Now: Child Care Provider

Child Care: What's Hot Now These articles that had the largest increase in popularity over the last week // via fulltextrssfeed.com

Child Care Provider Nov 9th 2011, 10:09 Desiring quality child care is a given. But determining what type of child care provider who meets your family's needs, lifestyle, budget, and even area where you live takes some research and discussion. After the decision has been made that quality child care is sought, ask yourself these questions first before moving on to what type of child care provider you want. Do you need a full-time or part-time child care provider arrangement? Does the family work traditional hours or is a caregiver expected to work early, late or weekends? And, if part-time, do the the days when care is needed remain consistent or does a child care provider need to be flexible on days worked? What is the family's budget for child care? Before determining what type of child care provider set-up is desired, a practical first step is determining what you can afford. An au pair or nanny, for example, will most likely cost much more than placing a child in a local daycare center. Montessori schools also typically charge more per week. How old is your child and what is your comfort level in placing him/her in a particular child care provider setting at this age? While daycare centers often will accept a child as soon as 6-to-8 weeks of age, many parents prefer a different type of setting for infants than they do for older, more active toddlers and pre-schoolers. Does your child have any special conditions or needs and is he/she better suited for a smaller, more intimate child care provider environment such as in-home care or thrives amongst larger classes and perhaps a greater selection of activities? Parents best know the personality and preferred structure of their children, and should choose situations that best allow them to thrive and grow. Consider that some kids flourish in kid care at their home with a care provider, while others find that set-up somewhat stifling and even lonely if other kids aren't available for playgroups. With consideration given to the above questions, select type of preferred child care provider arrangement. Determine whether your family prefers: In-home provider (usually in their home}--The level of care and experience can vary greatly, and an in-home provider may or may not be licensed/accredited. Advantages can include a more nurturing family-style environment; having a provider who shares similar views and child-rearing approaches and discipline styles; flexibility in care arrangements; home-cooked meals and family-style trips to the park and other outings; and sometimes cost savings compared to other options. Caregiver in your home --This is often the most expensive care option if a nanny (variations include a governess or au pair) arrangement is utilized. A "daytime" babysitter can be a more attractive option, although this type individual often does not have the training and experience the others have. Family member--Developing a closer bond to family members, additional convenience, and certainly cost savings are typically the upsides of utilizing a family member. But there are downsides as well, such as differing child-rearing philosophies, lack of training and experience (i.e. not being CPR-certified or having up-to-date training on first aid or even teaching phonics). Whether this is a right decision can depend on a number of dynamics and considerations, but it is a wonderful option for many families. Daycare center--This option is utilized for the majority of families for the affordability, reliability, and convenience. It is also considered the most "institutional" of childcare options, and as a result, offers less personalized care tailored to your child's special interests or needs. Turnover can be a consideration; however, parents like the knowledge of knowing that there always be a child care provider at the facility and so back-up care won't likely be needed. Preschool programs--Preschool programs often differ from daycare centers in many ways, but the differences can be very subtle or stark, depending on what you're comparing and where. Child care provider programs such as Montessori schools or academically-driven pre-school enrichment facilities often tout certified teachers, a regimented curriculum, enrichment options such as the immersion of a second language or rudimentary math and science, or even the arts. This type of program may or may not be right for you and your child, and you as the parent will have to be the judge. Costs of preschool programs are often higher than daycare centers. Babysitting or babysitting co-ops--If you only need occasional care, then hiring a babysitter may be all you need. But finding a qualified sitter with whom you trust your precious ones with and who is actually available at the times you need can sometimes be a challenge, especially during key busy times. Whether your choice is an individual child care provider or an group (institutional) care setting, be sure you feel comfortable and confident.

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