I am expecting at the end of september, and I have been battling with whether I should go back to work or not. I really want to be there for my little one during her most crucial years, however I also need the income. I have decided that it would be great for me to take on another little one while caring for my own. However, I of course want to look like an attractive caretaker to any future families who might want my services. Does anyone have any advice on how I should get started, and what types of certifications I should be seeking out? Has anyone on here done this themselves? This is how my own mother got through the three years after having me and she said it was the best decision she ever made. Thanks for your info!
2007-06-04 03:32:33 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Other - Pregnancy & Parenting
I waited until about 3 months after my daughter was born to start watching a friend's little boy. I already had a son who was 4 years. Then, when I felt like I had control of things, I applied for my day care license through the local DCFS office. It took me a few months to get it, but in the mean time I was able to watch my friends boy for some extra money until then. I was also saving some money because I didn't have to pay someone else to watch my children. I received my license just after my son started kindergarten. I now watch 5 other children(3 are school age) and I have my own 2 with one on the way. I love being able to stay at home with my kids and the other kids are great. I feed them lunch and snack everyday and plan some activities for them as well as letting them play outside. Getting started is the hardest part, but once you get going, it is well worth it.
2007-06-04 03:53:30 · answer #1 · answered by iamjoesmamma 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Having gone first to a new stay at home mom vs a trained in home daycare provider, it was a huge world of difference in the care, education and entertainment my kids got. I dont think Id ever go back to anyone without experience or uncertified again.
Heres why. When someones working and paying for care, it is very important to keep your available hours. Our SAHM often took days off unexpectedly for either herself or a child being sick.
Plus until you have a newborn, you wont realize how crazy tired it can make you, by the night after night after night of not getting regular sleep. This doesnt calm down often til about month 4. We found our SAHM to often be stressed and even call us to pick up or kids because she just needed a break - understandable, but once again, we then would have to take a day off too.
Lastly, we would have to often point out things that were safety violations, like not having a pressure vs hard mounted gate on the steps, no gate on deck stairs, a pack and play on a concrete floor, small toys out from her older child - choking hazard size with our infant. We got out of there pretty quick.
Having the certification and training makes a huge difference. Another thing you're also going to want to check with is your homeowners insurance.
2007-06-04 03:53:43 · answer #2 · answered by lillilou 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I too am in the same situation as you and this is what I will be doing. I first am going to get CPR certified, a specialized course for caregivers and child care providers. I went on the Red Cross website and found a course in my area. Next, i plan on advertising, putting out flyers, advertising in the local newspaper ect. It is also helpful if you have some references, anyone that you have watched children for in the past. Finally, if you offer a discounted rate, that would be most appealing. Good luck!
2007-06-04 03:45:25 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it were me I wouldn't take on another infant. My reason being is because you will get burnt out changing diapers and feeding all day long. Once your child quits crying the other will start! I would take on a toddler. Check with your local health department and they should be able to tell you where to start. Getting licensed means you can get USDA benefits, which will help you greatly! Good luck to you!
2007-06-04 03:39:43 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you seriously need the income, you should balance your work and your baby. You cna be there for your baby, but also be at work. Find a babysitter or someone you trust to watch him/her while your @ work and get back into your job and earn some cash. If you really don't want to work, you could do things like babysit, or a stay @ home job some you cna be tehre for your baby and also work.
2007-06-04 03:39:49 · answer #5 · answered by element_goddess09 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I also spent the first few years of my children's lives watching babies. Mostly for family, at a discount rate.
Everyone could use a current CPR course. I would highly recommend calling your local YMCA, or something of the sort, and see what they have to offer.
2007-06-04 03:37:51 · answer #6 · answered by Michelle 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋