As a parent, you may not be able to be with your child every second. Whether you need long-term childcare when you go back to work or just a babysitter for a few hours, having someone else watch your child is something you and your co-parent will likely need to discuss.
It’s important to be on the same page over childcare. It can be extremely beneficial for your child’s social and emotional development. But, it’s also essential to come up with a budget for your external childcare resources. Depending on your custody arrangement, your budget might look different than another separated couple.
If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to agreeing on childcare, we’ve got some resources that can help. First, we’ll talk about how you can find the best childcare setup and what to look for. Then, we’ll cover how you can overcome obstacles as a team for the best interest of your little one.
Choosing the Right Childcare Provider
There are millions of childcare providers in the country, from large centers to daycares running out of people’s homes. Unfortunately, there may not be very many near you. It’s a growing problem for parents across the country. That’s especially true in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced many childcare centers to close (at least temporarily).
If you find that you’re in a childcare desert, know what to look for in a good facility, even if you have limited options. Childcare deserts can actually be dangerous. Sending your child to the wrong facility can put them at risk of receiving improper care, and may even increase their risk of abuse and neglect.
Working with your co-parent to find the right provider is certainly in the best interest of your child. There are a few things to look for in a provider that can help you to make that choice, including things like:
- Quality of food
- Teacher to child ratios
- Organization
- Discipline
- Cleanliness
Another thing to check on is the children who are already at the facility (if you can make a visit). Do they seem happy? What types of activities are they doing on a daily basis? Does it seem like your child would fit in? Sometimes, going with your gut can be your greatest tool.
It’s also important to know that the staff working there is fully qualified, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Is every staff member up to date on all certifications to keep your child safe, including CPR? Do they know basic first aid care? Do they know how to work with children who have special needs?
On paper, it might seem as though you’re going too far or
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