Child / Children and other Dependancy Care

For working parents, there is the added stress of making sure their children are in trusted hands while they are at work. Ultimately, you are the best caregiver for your child, but for many parents, getting help with childcare is the best option for peace of mind at work. Whether you choose an at home babysitter, day care, there are some steps you can take to choose the right option for child care.

1. Visit the location.

If you are thinking of using day care, do a preliminary scout of several locations before you decide. Spend a few minutes observing how the staff interacts with the children, and whether the children seem happy and playful. Find out if there is adequate staff and space for children to safely explore.

2. Show up unexpectedly.

Drop by the daycare unexpectedly to scout the environment where you will be placing your child, and even after you have chosen them. You need to be reassured that the people you are leaving your child with are not just putting on a show while you are there. Take note of the general environment, looking for clean surfaces, a safe play area and age appropriate toys that will aid the children’s development.

3. Choose a reliable sitter.

If you opt for an in-home babysitter, be sure to stress the importance of reliability. That involves them being on-time to ensure that you in turn are on time for work. The sitter should also have basic knowledge of First Aid or at least be able to carry out simple instructions in case of an emergency.

4. Trust your instincts.

If something doesn’t feel, look for another option. Even a babysitter that comes highly recommended or the daycare centre that has a year-long waiting list may not be ideal for you and your child. The aim is to find a nurturing environment where your child can thrive in your absence.

5. Be flexible.

As much as you want consistency for your baby, your work schedule may dictate otherwise. Sometimes a combination of daycare and sitter might work best. Other times, a family member may have to step in so that you can do an extra shift. Just as you show that you are flexible at work, be open to utilizing different options when it comes to child care.