Childcare and the two-parent home are tough enough but then when the home is a one-parent household, finding good childcare becomes an even greater challenge. As a parent, you are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure your child is given the best possible care. You want to be able to go to working knowing your child is being loved, fed, changed, rocked, and played with in a safe and secure environment.
Unfortunately, we have all heard the horror stories pertaining to childcare and while they are rare, things do happen. Since most single parents work outside the home, securing childcare is not a luxury but a requirement. While you still have the same options of what a two-parent home would have, often money issues stand in the way of doing what you really want to do. However, you might be eligible for state assistance too, which is something to consider.
If you can afford one, I would highly recommend a professional nanny. Depending on your financial situation, you might have a nanny that lives in the house, one that can also clean and cook. If not, then the nanny would come to your house daily to care for your children. If you work a professional job that requires you to be out of the house long hours, a nanny is a great solution in that this person would get your children on and off the school but, help with homework, fix dinner, and so on. The only downside to hiring a nanny is the cost.
If you have parents or grandparents nearby, they might be interested in helping out. Sometimes, people are fortunate enough to have retired parents or grandparents that are willing and able to provide daycare services. Obviously, the trust level would be much greater than with a stranger, allowing you to concentrate on work. In addition, using family usually means a huge reduction in cost. Although some parents and grandparents would love to do the babysitting free, other people agree that some type of financial agreement should be established.
Then, if living in a city where you know very few people, I recommend you find a reputable church or even ask within the child’s school to see if there are any recommendations. In addition, your child’s doctor may know of someone that is competent in childcare. The most important thing is that unless using family, you want to do a complete background check and even more importantly, you should ask for references and then check them out. Additionally, I would never hesitate in putting cameras in the home so you can see what is going on from work anytime you want. Although there is an expense involved, cameras are actually more affordable than ever before.
Tips for Hiring a Good Daycare Provider