Baby Talk - 8/3/17

Asking others for recommendations is a good way to start the process. Here are descriptions of several child care options.

• Au pairs and nannies – Au pairs and nannies provide in-home care and often perform light housekeeping tasks. An au pair generally lives in the home, so a spare bedroom will need to be available. A day nanny is an option if you prefer to not have someone stay in your home. This daycare arrangement allows for one-on- one care for your baby, flexibility in hours, and no last minute worries if baby is sick.

• Daycare centers – Daycare centers, with highly trained staff, afford opportunities for your baby to develop social skills, to engage in age-appropriate developmental activities, and to follow a structured routine. These centers can be costly, often have a waiting list, and require you to have a back-up plan when baby is sick. You will need to work daycare drop-off and pick-up into your daily routine.

• Family daycare – A licensed daycare provider cares for your baby in her home. This arrangement offers a home-environment and interactions with a small number of children. Family daycare is generally less costly than a daycare center, but if the provider or her children are sick, you will need to make other daycare arrangements for the day.

What daycare options have worked for you? Please, share.