By: Amber Little
Parenthood is full of choices. From conception until adulthood, the choices parents make concerning their child(ren) are endless. One of the first choices that parents have to make after baby is born is childcare. As many homes have two working parents, childcare is an important and time sensitive choice. Below is a guide to help parents make the best childcare choice for their family.
“Public” Daycare
Public daycares are any daycares that receive state funding and accept state tuition vouchers.
Tuition: $250-300/weekly
Hours: Usually 6 A.M. – 6 P.M. ( there are daycares with extended hours and 24 hour daycares in some areas)
After-school option: Yes
Standards: Each state has it’s own set of regulatory standards for “public” daycares. (Information about standards can be found on your local state Department of Health and Human Services website).
Minimum staff standards include but are not limited to:
- SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)
- CPR
- First Aid
- 2 year degree in Early Childhood Education
Best for: Parents who work out of the home and a set schedule
“Private Daycare”
Daycares that do not receive any state funding. Faith based preschools and daycares are private.
Tuition: $75-600/weekly
Hours: Varies by center, 9 A.M. – 1 P.M. or 8 A.M. – 5 P.M.
After-school option: Varies
Standards: Each state has it’s own set of regulatory standards for “private” daycares. (Information about standards can be found on your local state Department of Health and Human Services website).
Minimum staff standards include but are not limited to:
- CPR
- First Aid
Best for: Parents who work from home or have a flexible schedule
Nanny
Price: $12-$20/hourly (pay based on certification and experience)
Hours: You make the schedule. The nanny is an in-home childcare option.
After-school option: Yes
Standards: There is no nanny certification, individuals are responsible for getting their own certifications such as CPR and First Aid. Parents are responsible for setting the standards for nannies.
Best for: Parents who work from home, parents with a flexible or set schedules
Helpful Tip: Care.com is a great place to find a nanny. They offer background checks and drug screenings.
Parents should always do their research when it comes to making the right choice for their child(ren).
Remember to:
- Research your STATE regulations for daycares, private and public
- Research ALL facilities you are interested in.
- TAKE a tour. Websites are meant to look good. Always go to the facility in person. You can meet staff, see the condition of the facility for yourself and see the staffs interaction with the children.
- If choosing the nanny route, interviews are important. Make sure your child(ren) are available during the interview. You want to see the natural interaction before hiring this person on.
- Background checks are important! Daycares will most likely already have this covered. If you are hiring a nanny, look at websites that do the work for you.
- Listen to your gut and your child’s gut!
