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childcare dos &don'ts
Regardless of who is watching your child while
you're at work - a nanny in your home, the proprietor of a family childcare operation or a worker at a large daycare center - it's important that you try to foster
a relationship with your caregiver. Built on trust and communication, a positive
bond can result in some essential peace of mind for you. The National PTA, in
addition to other child-advocacy organizations, suggests the following for
working parents:
do
- Write down what you expect of your caregiver (fees, hours, duties) and what she can expect from you (payment schedule, supplies).
- Pick up your child (or come home) on time.
- Pay on time so the caregiver can take care of her family.
- Acknowledge the caregiver on holidays and birthdays.
- If you are meant to supply items such as diapers, bring them before they are needed.
- Agree in advance about what to do if your child is sick.
- Talk to the caregiver every day about your child's activities.
- Immediately address any concerns you have regarding your child and/or the caregiver.
don't
- Don't surprise your child's caregiver with drastic schedule changes. (Give a month to six weeks notice.)
- Don't involve your caregiver in your family's disputes.
- Don't jump to conclusions when you have a concern.
(Ask questions before forming an opinion.)
- Don't offer advice or instructions in a critical manner.
- Don't forget to respect your caregiver as a professional. (Value her as an important person in your child's life.)
Stephanie Stassel is a Los Angeles Times staff writer who feels lucky to have extended family members available to care for her son Jesse, 8, and daughter Jennifer, 4.
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