| rsquo;re planning to go back to work after your baby | | | | This option shares the same disadvantages of having |
| is born, child care is a major concern. Your childcare | | | | a nanny in terms of no backup plan. |
| provider will be spending a lot of time with your child, | | | | The third option is a traditional daycare center. |
| so it is critical that you be comfortable with the | | | | Traditional daycares are affordable, and there is no |
| environment and the style of care your child will be | | | | need to worry about a caretaker getting sick or |
| receiving. There are several alternatives, each with | | | | wanting to take vacation. A daycare might also be |
| pros and cons. Spend some time evaluating each | | | | more of a learning environment than home care, which |
| option, so that you can make the choice that best suits | | | | will become more important to you as your child gets |
| your needs. | | | | older. The main disadvantages of daycares are that |
| The first option is in-home child care, meaning a sitter, | | | | your child is exposed to all the germs of all the children. |
| or nanny who comes to your home to watch the child. | | | | Be prepared for the both of you to be sick for a year. |
| This is by far the most expensive option, but it has | | | | The other disadvantage is the numbers of children |
| many advantages. Your child will be at home, and will | | | | being cared for. For example, in most states, the law |
| have the full attention of the nanny. In addition, your | | | | requires one caretaker per eight babies. Now, I |
| child will be exposed to fewer illnesses, and you will not | | | | don’t know about you, but I could not effectively |
| have to transport her back and forth on your way to | | | | care for eight babies alone. So, if you decide to use a |
| and from work. The main disadvantage is that you | | | | daycare center, be sure to ask their caretaker to child |
| have no real backup if your nanny gets sick or wants | | | | ratio. Look for one with about five babies per |
| to take vacation. Another thing to consider is your | | | | caretaker. |
| feelings if your child develops a very strong bond with | | | | Choosing your baby’s childcare arrangement is |
| the nanny. More than one mother has been hurt by the | | | | one of the most important decisions you’ll make. |
| sense that the baby is more comfortable with the | | | | Even after you’ve chosen a care option, be |
| nanny than with her. | | | | diligent about ensuring that your child is receiving the |
| The second option is a small home daycare, meaning | | | | best care. Drop in unannounced at odd times of day to |
| you find someone who will keep your child in her home, | | | | see what’s going on. Don’t be afraid to |
| perhaps with her own children or one or two others. | | | | ask questions, and let the caretaker know |
| This is a good option if you want your child in a home | | | | what’s important to you. |
| atmosphere, but can’t afford the full time nanny. | | | | |