Is daycare really the best answer?

Question

Should I send my daughter to day care now or wait til she can talk? She is 5mons.

Answer 1

We sent both of our daughters to a home daycare, starting at 8 weeks. It's state licensed; we checked the file for license violations and we interviewed parents that had kids at her house. We went to check it out a few times, at different times of day.

In the end, we just felt like Deb really loves the kids that she cares for, and they all seem happy. I think that the mixed age group teaches socialization skills, and the home setting provides opportunities that the girls would be getting (gardening, cooking, art projects, errand running, trips to the playground, etc.) that I'D be doing with them were I able to stay home. And she offers a preschool curriculum, and each kid seems to be encouraged to follow their curiosity and interests.

You just have to figure out what's best for your family, and then find a daycare situation that meets your needs and expectations. There are more options out there than just big daycare centers.

Answer 2

For me, daycare was the only viable option. I am and will always be a working mom. I don't have my parents close by and I choose to work, even though hubby doesn't like it. I'm just not "stay at home mom" material.

I did find a wonderful lady to care for my two babies. My daughter went to her when she was three months and my son when he was three weeks old. They are the only two she cares for. We have become incredibly close...we all call her Momma 'Vette. I realize not all people have such an awesome arrangement as I do but if you're considering going back to work then spend some time finding someone who'll care for your child and interview them first.

A daycare facility may not be the best at this point since babies do get sick more often when around other children. Whatever the case yours may be...I'm sure you'll make the best decision for yourself and your child.

Answer 3

Do what you feel is best for you.

My daughter is 3 and I'm still home with her. We tried day care for about a month when she was 18 months old and it was a nightmare for us. She stayed sick the entire time and almost ended up in the hospital she was so sick.

For me it was not worth it, plus I couldn't stand the thoughts of a stranger having my child for over 8 hours a day.

This was my own personal experience and things could go better for you, you just have to think it through and decide what's best for you and your family. Also, be sure to thoroughly check out any home based or daycare facility for any complaints filed against them.

Good Luck.

Answer 4

I would say that from my own personal experience that staying home for the First year of the babys life was the best choice for me because both of my chidren did not sleep through the night (my 11 month old stil wakes up frequently) and my heart just hurt knowing that someonelse was providing vital care for my child other than me at such a tender age. Also it allowed me to breastfeed both of mine and not have to worry about pumping milk. Not that it is impossible but while I was a very good pumper I still was barely meeting his demands while I worked( I worked for two months after he was born in the military) After that year I would say that the only answer that is right is what works for you and your family. I you can afford to stay at home and you really like it than dont let preassure push you back into the work place.

Answer 5

I would wait. If you really have to go to work for financial reasons, then do so. If you do, make sure to spend time with your child when work is over and on the weekends because it's important, which I'm sure you know. My mother waited with me until I was ready for preschool. Take extra special care in picking a day care. Come in sometimes unanounced, maybe at lunch, to see what is normally going on. Children can make friends at day care and learn new things there, but your child is a bit too young to do any of that now.

Answer 6

I prefer a home daycare. There aren't as many kids, therefore, the caretaker can interact with the kids more. I don't regret sending my daughter 2 a home daycare. When kids are in daycare, they learn 2 interact with others. Do your research, ask friends and family for referrals, make surprise visits.

Answer 7

It's up to you. Can you afford to stay home with your child? If so, especially since she's still an infant, I'd recommend staying home with her. However, daycare has it's advantages. Your child will get social interaction, even if she cannot talk yet. She will learn to separate from her parents and know that you will return. Either way, you have to weigh out the pros and cons of all possibilities.

Answer 8

1. No one will love your daughter like you do.
2. They frequently get sick from passing germs at daycare.
3. Without talking, she can't tell you what REALLY happens when you're not there.
4. Unless you have a high-power job, your income minus daycare and convenience food and different clothes might not be worth it---check the actual numbers.

Answer 9

I worked at a daycare. My advice is that if you don't have to send your child then don't. Now that I know about the way daycares are I wouldn't send mine to one. most daycares will let you tour their centers and even sit in on the room your child will be in if you want. I hope this helps.

Answer 10

I would wait. I've worked in a daycare and most of the day infants are just left sitting, bored. It's sad but true. Wait until she's walking & talking.