Daycare
Daycare is less expensive than hiring a nanny, and it gives your child daily interaction with other kids his age. However, finding a daycare center is often an anxiety-provoking ordeal. When looking for a daycare center, experts say, it's a good idea to ask a friend whose childcare philosophy matches yours for recommendations. Next, visit the daycare center you're considering: talk to the staff, check out the facilities, and watch the children interact with the employees and with each other.
As for the staff, take a good look at their qualifications, philosophies and general demeanor. Experts caution that early childhood care is typically a low-paying job with high turnover and that daycare professionals are often not certified. When you visit a daycare facility, consider whether the staff is experienced and if they seem to enjoy working with kids. Ensure that the physical facilities are up to your standards. Other factors to consider include food service, pickup/drop-off policies, and care of toddlers vs. infants.
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