How to Evaluate Child Care Options as a Work From Home Mother

When it comes to childcare, there is nothing more important to the working mother. While many mothers who work from home believe that they can go without it, not everyone is so lucky. Having your children around is a blessing, but it can definitely distract from effective work. This is especially true when your work involves phone calls, detail-oriented work, and specified hours on the clock. Thankfully, there are options for everyone, and here are a few for mothers of all working positions to consider.

Individual Care

One option is a private person who is qualified to home teach and who has proven to others (get references) that she is qualified to take care of your child personally and with education. If your child needs to be watched by a relative, have a major discussion as to what all will be included in the way of homeschooling. A large amount of quality learning time is crucial as the child is also being prepared for going into the public school system and thus being able to keep up with the other students as they learn their lessons and continue to improve.

Having someone provide individual care for your child can greatly improve their learning and performance while keeping your work life and childcare separate. This can happen whether you hire someone to come to your home or in independent child care facilities. Whatever route is best for you, ensure you choose a service that truly gives your child the individual attention they need to succeed.

Use Online Resources

There is a variety of childcare related resources that can give information about finding quality childcare and financial assistance if needed. Child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agencies can help in person, by phone, by email, or online. You can also access local forums through social media where you can get referrals from other parents to help you know what option would be best for your child’s needs.

Check Licensing and Standards

Licensing of childcare facilities varies from state to state, and there are many smaller facilities that may not need to be licensed at all. You cannot tell what the situation is in the option that you are considering, so just come out and ask to see their license and the certifications of their staff. Many states have additional quality standards under a community quality rating and improvement system (QRIS) that awards childcare programs with symbols for rating levels to indicate higher quality. Look for such higher ratings.

Costs

If you need financial help to pay for childcare, be aware that every state has an agency that is responsible for a childcare assistance program that helps low-income families pay for childcare, and each has its own guidelines for assistance eligibility. You can also talk to your employer if you are remotely working for a company, as many offer childcare cost assistance for employees that have to leave their child at home alone otherwise. If you are working independently, however, then there are charities and parent support groups that can help you get the resources you need as well.

Quality childcare is what every working parent desires, no matter where they work, so it pays to be diligent in your choice of where your child/children will spend a good portion of their time. You want to know that you are having exceptional early childhood education provided that will educate the whole child, meaning that the thorough experience will also have the priorities of being crucial socially and emotionally as well as mentally and physically. When you have peace of mind that your child is being well taken care of, you can focus on your work in order to provide for the family.

By Meghan Belnap