As a parent, you are no stranger to the sentiment that it takes a village to raise a child. However, that sentiment is especially fitting for parents who are also business owners. Quality child care is crucial for both parents and kids, as it frees up time, can alleviate guilt, and provides a safe and nurturing environment where kids can learn and explore independently of their parents.
Benefits for Children
The benefits of quality child care for children are too numerous to list in a single post, but learning emotional, social, and communication skills would be way up there for any child. The right childcare center will also have an educational component where little ones can practice and master basic English, math, and science skills.
Perhaps the two most important reasons for choosing outside childcare over trying to care for your child while you work are that your son or daughter learns how to operate independently from you, and your children aren’t stuck in front of the TV while you work in the next room.
Benefits for Parents
For parents, and especially those focused on creating a positive financial future for their families, having reliable childcare means not having to worry about your littlest love. Also, it can alleviate some of the guilt you might otherwise feel in those moments where you have to essentially ignore your child to provide for their economic comfort.
Having your child cared for during the day frees you up to focus solely on your work. However, child care is just one of the many services that can help you get established. If you’re interested in starting your own business that will provide you with additional legal protections and tax benefits, you can file the documents yourself or use an online formation service. This is an affordable process that can help you protect the assets you work so hard to provide for your family.
Another option is to bring care to you. A housecleaner or lawn care professional are two options for help you can bring in for tasks that don’t perpetuate family time. Or, as Parenting Healthy notes, you could look into hiring a nanny who lives in your home and cares for your children when you are unavailable. If this seems like a viable solution for your family, you’ll also need to take stock of your home environment. You may need to add on a room or repurpose a section to accommodate live-in help and space for you to work. Fortunately, upgrades of this type generally increase the appraisal value of your home when you are ready to sell.
How To Choose a Day Nursery
Choosing a day nursery is nerve-racking for new parents, especially when waitlists can be up to a year-long in some areas. You might feel as though you have to settle for the first opening. But, before you leave your little ones in someone else’s care, follow the advice from Babycentre, and ensure they have an open door policy for parents and a variety of play options.
The staff member should have plenty of face-to-face interaction on the child’s level. You should also discuss your parenting philosophies on things like television and discipline. Ask about snacks and lunchtimes, and what, if any, after-hour services are available if you get stuck in a meeting that you can’t shake.
Find Your People and Your Balance
Having a child and starting a business are both big deals. When you want to be a parent and an entrepreneur, you’ll want a partner by your side that will care for your young one the way that you would. Having a trustworthy group of men and women to keep your little one safe while you put food on the table is a great compromise and may just be one of the most positive experiences your children ever have.
Look into the best option for your family, and take the necessary steps to get the help you need, whether it’s a home expansion for a child minder or a spot at a local day nursery. In the end, you will see the benefits for you and your family.
Photo Credit: Cottonbro Studio
