Choosing the Right Daycare

One of the most difficult decisions for new parents to make when it is time to go back to work is what kind of daycare they should use. They need to ask themselves many questions on what kind of care they want their child to have. Some families decide to have one of the parents stay home with their child/children because the cost outweighs their income. But for many families the parents must both work out of the home. This leaves the question on what kind of daycare best suits their family. Making a list of pro’s and con’s for both daycare center versus in-home daycare's. This will hopefully make that important decision a little less stressful. This is one of the most critical decisions that parents will make. They need to go back to work self- assured that their child is getting the best care possible.

The following are a few pros and cons of in- home versus daycare centers and visa-versa.

Pros of in- home:

Ø   In- home usually cost less than daycare centers

Ø  In- home may work around your schedule if you have to work late or go in early

Ø  There are not as many children which minimizes the chance of illness

Ø  There are fewer kids so your child may receive more attention

Ø  In- home offers more of an at home feeling for the child

Pros of daycare centers:

Ø  Are  licensed and are state regulated

Ø  The child to provider ratios

Ø  More child to child interaction

Ø  More dependable than in home. If a provider is off, you can still bring your child

Ø  May be more secure

If you’re having a difficult time making the decision it would be good idea to set up interviews or tours for both types of daycare. This is a good way to ease the stress. You may walk out of the interview knowing that this type of daycare is or is not right for you. Having a list of questions prepared will make the process more smoothly.  I have composed a sample list of questions that can be asked at the interview below.

Ø  What the hours are?

Ø  Additional fee for late pick up?

Ø  What the daily schedule is?

Ø  What type of activities?

Ø  Are there any field trips?

Ø  Is there outside time?

Ø  What is included in the price?

Ø  What items you need to supply?

Ø  What type of discipline is used?

Ø  If they have references?

Ø  Scenarios of how they handle different situations?

     Hopefully, these suggestions will help make the transition back to work go a little more smoothly. Leaving the child for the first time is always stressful, but feeling confident that you made the decision based on what works best for your family will make the adjustment easier. Always ask the provider how your child’s day was and if is anything you need to know. Lastly, try to be open and honest with your provider and form a good relationship with them.  Be reassured that your child is getting the best care possible so that you can return to work more confidently.

Getting Ready for the Baby

First time parents are usually so excited when they learn they are expecting. They rush out to the stores wanting to buy everything in sight. They want their baby to have all the coolest gadgets possible. It’s important to get everything organized and ready for when the baby arrives.  Also, the baby’s room should be ready before the little one comes home from the hospital.  Decorating the baby room is probably the most exciting part of getting ready for his/her arrival. But you don’t have to go broke doing it. You need to make a list of what the necessities are. Register for these items and even a few items that you just have to have. Most moms have a baby shower with family and friends. This is a great way to get their want list filled. In my experience with family and friends, the most important things to purchase are:

Ø  Crib or bassinet

Ø  Dresser

Ø  Changing Table- This is vital to keep everything organized and easily accessible

Ø  Car Seat

Ø  Diapers

Ø  Wipes

Ø  Burp Cloths

Ø  Formula and bottles- If you’re not nursing

Ø  Pump and storage bags- if your nursing

Ø   Baby nail clippers

Ø  Baby thermometer

Ø  Vaseline and gauze to care for the circumcision

Ø  Baby Tub

Ø  Wash cloths and bath items

Ø  Diaper Cream

Ø  Receiving Blankets

Ø  Crib Bedding

Ø  Under Shirts

Ø  Pajamas

Ø  Socks

Ø  Hats

Ø  Sweater/Coat

Ø  Rompers

Ø  Dress Outfits

Ø  Rattles or other small toys

Ø  Books

Ø  Infant Tylenol

These are the basics items needed to bring the baby home.  There are isles and isles of items to purchase that make being parents a little easier. Other items that are beneficial would be:a stroller, baby monitor, baby swing, pack and play, jump-a-roo, infant seat. But it depends on your finances and what you have room for. Usually, friends and families bring welcome home gifts, so it’s a good idea to be registered for the other items that you would like to have. Remember, all the baby wants and needs is your love.