Preschool Care - Nurseries and Kindergartens

Preschool care is usually only required when the parents have consulted with one another – and both have made the decision that they would prefer to continue to work. (Or as is the case, very often, with many families, they both need to carry on working in order to “make ends meet”). Several families with only one of the two partners working – still have a preference for preschool care of some description. It may be to permit the parent more freedom – or it may be that it is considered more beneficial – with regards to general social behaviour and better development.

Baby nurseries and kindergartens play a very important role in the care of millions of young children throughout the world. Costs vary considerably from one baby nursery to another – but the higher the cost does not necessarily mean better care. Search out the baby and childrens nurseries within your locality. Endeavour to find out as much as possible regarding their usual daily routines with the young children – such as art activities, story times and any educational work that they may be covering with the babies and children in their care. Find out the daily/weekly costs for your child’s attendance.

Baby minders and child minders are often an invaluable help to parents. Always ensure that they have the important credentials before considering leaving your baby or child with an individual person. Discover what they envisage doing with your child during each day – for example, going shopping, a walk to the park and any creative activities (if the child is older) which will enhance their development. Enquire about the Minder’s daily/weekly charge for child care.

Nannies look after babies and children at the home of the young ones – unlike child minders who care for children at their own home i.e. the home of the child minder.

There are usually big considerations as to whether Nanny should live within the household – or whether he/she should work several hours as required, during the day time, and return to his/her own home in the evening. Nannies who live within households should always be supplied with their own individual bedroom – and a Nanny must never be “on call” 24 hours a day. For a happy atmosphere, a good relationship needs to be set up with your Nanny from the start – and expectations of the job need in-depth discussions in advance. That way, no-one is in any doubts about the part they have to play.

The biggest benefit of a good working relationship between a parents and their Nanny - helps the young one(s) to feel happy and develop well emotionally.