Three Types of Child Care You Can Choose
As parents go to work every day, they leave their children in the care of others. It's their hope that their kids are receiving the best care possible. Unfortunately, this isn't always true, which is why you should choose quality child care that caters for your child's needs. You can start by learning about the types of childcare available.
i. Home-based care
This kind of child care relies on help from nannies, babysitters, family and friends. In most cases, you're not paying for the services, unless you've hired a babysitter or a nanny. However, with grandparents, neighbours, family and friends, they might do it for free.
It is a nice setting and environment for your child, but it has its limitations. For example, if the person you're hoping to care for your child is busy, you'll have to seek another option. If the person is sick, you'll need an alternative.
ii. Child care centres
Enrolling your child into a quality child care centre is often a necessary choice for working parents. It provides a loving and supportive environment for children to grow, explore, learn and socialise. While there, children can enjoy being kids, socialise and build their self-confidence as they interact with other kids. They will also learn to adhere to routines and schedules. Such routines are beneficial for healthy sleeping patterns and academic preparation.
Your child will be provided with food and care. Some of these centres allow some degree of flexibility when it comes to meals. You can request that they create a feeding plan that suits your child's needs.
iii. Family child care
This is another great option where caregivers offer the child care services in a setting similar to the child's home. It's seen as a better alternative to child care centres as your child gets to learn in an environment similar to that at home.
Family child care has almost the same features as a typical home; there is a kitchen, living room, bathrooms, backyard, and a play area. Such a setting will allow the child to feel comfortable and interact with other kids. And since, it's a family-like setting; your child will interact with kids of different ages and learn from them.
Typically, family child care programs are limited to a few children which means the ratio of caregivers to kids is low. Your child isn't fighting for attention with 50 other kids; instead, they are getting the care and attention needed.
For more information, reach out to a child care facility near you.