How To Find Safe Childcare

When it comes to your children, you can’t be too careful.

Here’s how to find safe childcare that your family can trust.

 

As a parent, your child’s safety and wellbeing are your number one concern and dictate every decision you make. Whether you’re a new parent, switching jobs, or moving to a new area, finding yourself in need of new childcare can be incredibly overwhelming.

Figuring out who you can trust with your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, which is why it’s one you can’t take lightly.

Our world faces unprecedented uncertainties, from COVID to violence and more, so it’s no wonder “safe” has a different meaning to all parents. You don’t have to face this decision on your own; Kid Care Pediatrics is here to help by providing the information necessary to help you make the best childcare decision for your family.

 

Determine What “Safe” Means To You

Before deciding which type of childcare you would like to use, you must determine the safety expectations it must meet. As we stated before, “safe” means something different to every parent.

You may require your childcare provider to wear masks and practice strict COVID and other illness protocols. On the other hand, your concerns might focus more on physical protective measures like self-locking doors and on-site security.

There is no right or wrong answer to what “safe” means to you, but by predetermining your requirements, you can expedite the process of narrowing your options.

 

Types Of Childcare

There are two commonly used types of childcare—group and in-home daycare. Each offers its own set of pros and cons, providing unique opportunities for your child.

Group Daycare

Group daycare facilities are licensed by the state and function in a similar fashion to a school. Here you will find children varying in age, from infancy to school age, cared for in a classroom-type setting.

Generally, group daycare is less expensive than in-home options and operates during weekdays. These facilities will often have stricter hours of operation than in-home care, which may not be ideal for those with unreliable work schedules, although most are open for around twelve hours daily.

Alternatively, group daycares generally don’t close for the employees’ vacation schedules, an occurrence you may have to plan around with in-home care. The adult-to-child ratio in group daycare centers varies by location but must adhere to the statute set by the state.

In-Home Daycare

In-home daycare is provided in the caregiver’s home, often creating a more relaxing environment for the child. Since every state’s licensing requirements for in-home care vary, it’s essential you research your area’s regulatory requirements before choosing this option.

Generally, in-home daycare has fewer children than in a group daycare setting, meaning more personalized attention for each child. Little ones at higher risk for illness may benefit from this option as it presents a lessened chance of exposure. In-home care may be comparable in price to group daycare, but is often slightly less expensive overall.

One aspect to consider with school-age children is transportation to and from school and their access to stimulating activities. Due to this, many in-home daycares offer their services to preschool age and below.

How A Personal Nanny Compares To Daycare

Hiring a nanny to care for your child is an option for those seeking a personalized care experience. When using a nanny, you perform the interview process and choose a candidate you feel matches best with your family’s childrearing beliefs.

A nanny is an excellent option for those with long or sporadic schedules seeking to keep their child on a comforting routine inside the home. Since they work one-on-one with your child, they develop a bond that greatly benefits the child’s wellbeing. Although expensive, there are companies you can use that make hiring a nanny comparable in price to group or in-home daycare.

There are some cons to be aware of when considering this option. Nannies lack the oversight a group daycare provides, which may concern some parents. They also involve more tax-related paperwork than other care options and can be incredibly pricey depending on the service you use.

Finding a nanny your family trusts may also take longer, which is a consideration for those on a tight schedule. All in all, the decision comes down to what option fits your family best.

 

Important Care Checklists

When choosing the best care option for your child, you’ll want to create a checklist you can follow to help determine which one is right for you. Doing so will help you compare all your options and take some of the confusion out of the process.

• Cost analysis of all options
• Local establishment reviews
• Interviewing applicants
• Checking all accreditations
• Ensuring their childcare philosophy is in line with your own
• Seeing if they serve food and drinks and how food allergies are handled
• Understanding their protocols for common illnesses like the flu, chicken pox, and more

Don’t be afraid to drop by the facility unannounced to see how they operate daily and their frequent activities. It’s vital you make your childcare wishes clearly known, ensuring the group or in-home option you choose can guarantee the time commitment necessary to properly care for your child’s needs.

You also need to be sure that your child fulfills any vaccine or immunization requirements for a certain facility, or that the facility meets your requirements.

Use Your Resources

There is help at your disposal to help you make the best decision for your child. Your family and friends are your first and most vital resources, offering their time and advice to make the process easier.

Asking for recommendations from those you trust is an invaluable tool that helps bring clarity and peace of mind.

 

Do What’s Best for You and Your Family

Choosing childcare you trust for your child’s safety is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, so there’s no such thing as being too thorough. At Kid Care Pediatrics, we put your child’s health and happiness above all else, which is why we’re happy to answer all of your childcare-related questions.

We take pride in our family approach to pediatric medicine, providing parenting resources to guide you every step of the way. With Kid Care Pediatrics, you receive the friendly, knowledgeable care you need from a name you can trust!