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If Not You, Who?
Finding the Right Childcare
By Mark Stackpole
Frede advises that parents remember to take the "child's eye view" when visiting childcare providers. Before enrolling your own child, observe another who already attends. "Pick one child and follow her through the day," she says. "See how much interaction she receives. Is she enjoying herself, being challenged to think, communicating, creating and having fun playing with others?"
If the child has a positive experience, it is time to consider your own feelings. "Ask yourself, 'Do I like it here?'" Frede says. "Would I enjoy spending three to eight hours with these people, in this environment?"
From there, parents need to do a little more traditional research, determining what the state's licensing requirements are and whether or not the daycare is actually licensed. Even if all of the requirements are met, Frede reminds parents that simply having a license doesn't mean that it is a high-quality program or the right fit for every family.
Rebecca Howard believes that nanny care offers a child the advantages of a one-on-one relationship with his caregiver and less exposure to illnesses. For parents, having a nanny can mean more flexibility and an extra set of hands to help around the house or assist with errands. Determining which environment will be most comfortable and beneficial to your child is obviously the most important.
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