This long debated question may never have a final answer. Ultimately, hiring a nanny or choosing childcare is a personal choice that has to be based on what’s right for your child and for your family situation. Making this decision becomes easier when families have all of the facts and a concrete educated decision can be made with confidence.
Families will have to factor in the budget, commute to the care location, how important school readiness is, the child’s current abilities and of course each parents personal beliefs. So ask,
- What is my budget?
- What does my work day look like? Is there flexibility in the work hours?
- How will this benefit my child and our family
They factor in the budget, location, commute to the care location how important school readiness is and social skills and abilities.
In some circumstances hiring a Nanny might be the right choice if;
- You work evenings or nights; travel a lot or have an unpredictable schedule. The structured approach of a childcare facility might not be the right fit for your needs. Nannies, particularly the live-in variety, offer flexibility and around the clock care.
- If you have three or more children who need care, a nanny may be a more budget-friendly way to go than paying for multiple spots in a childcare.
- If you need someone who can provide both childcare and light housekeeping duties, a nanny will often do basic chores (cleaning, walking the dog, grocery shopping) and cook meals for the family.
- If you have a job that makes it difficult to take time off when your child gets sick, a nanny can take care of them so you are free to continue working.
Childcare may offer a different set of options to benefit your family if you are looking for;
- Social Opportunities – Opportunities for peer interaction in childcare are virtually unlimited, making it easier for your child to develop important social skills like sharing, turn taking communication and conflict resolution. Plus, it’s more fun to be with other children, and give your little on the chance to play with consistent friends every day.
- Language Development – In a structured childcare environment there is never a shortage of talking and interaction. Children learn through play, songs, games, and other activities designed to foster language development and other key skills.
- Academic Development – A warm yet structured learning environment gives children an excellent basis for future learning; they build literacy, numeracy and self-care skills earlier, experience better school readiness and transition easier to a traditional classroom setting.
- Multiple Caregivers – If a nanny gets sick or goes on vacation, parents usually have to scramble for back up care or stay home and miss work. In childcare that’s never a problem as your child is usually in a supervised environment with several adults.
