Advantages and disadvantages of infant daycare programs
Infant daycare is a convenient option for many working parents. The types of daycare available for infants include in-home and family daycare, group daycare, and nannies. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of infant daycare helps parents make wise choices.
The Advantages of Infant Daycare
Silvana Clark, professional speaker and the author 101 Tips for Child Development Training: 101 Quick Tips for Managing a Preschool or Daycare [Totline Publications, 1996], firmly believes that infants need to remain with a parent. If this is not an option for parents, there are a few advantages to infant daycare. “In a quality child care situation, your child will learn there are many people who take care of him or her. They are stimulated by seeing other babies and get used to sleeping in a not so quiet environment,” says Clark.
Ashley Murphree is the owner of Carpe Diem Private Preschools which provides infant care programs that are in very high demand. Murphree recommends daycare programs for infants because they are dependable. “Daycare programs are regulated by policies, procedures, and licensing standards and are supervised by well educated, experienced administrators to make sure all criteria are met on a daily basis,” says Murphree.
Another advantage to daycare programs for infants, according to Murphree, is that a caring teamwork between the family and school is encouraged and supported. “Daycare programs offer parent education meetings and other opportunities for parents to socialize with each other,” explains Murphree.
The Pros and Cons of Nannies
Lonna Corder, renowned parenting expert and creator of Lonna’s Independent Parenting Plan (LIPP), believes that that private nannies are a complicated choice because a nanny or babysitter requires no background check unless found through an agency. However, a nanny is a good choice if they are found through an agency, are educated in child development, have training in CPR, and can pass a thorough background check.
In addition, Corder believes that if the nanny is made to feel like a partner with parents and is given job pride and respect, the private nanny is a fantastic option. “Nannies can love children as much as extended family, but should be put in charge of the child first and foremost. Hiring a housekeeper as a full time nanny is not going to support your baby’s development,” warns Corder.
Murphree cautions parents that nannies and home care providers aren’t always available due to illness, vacations, and can quit without notice. Many are also usually unsupervised and unregulated.
The Disadvantages of Infant Daycare
According to Clark, studies show children in childcare get sick more often because of the number of possible germs. Murphree agrees that since infants in dayxare interact with more adults and children, they may get colds, ear infections, and other illnesses more often than those who stay at home or with a nanny.
Murphree also warns that many daycare centers have a high staff turnover rate, which interferes with the consistency of care for infants.
