Leaving your small baby with another person is a terrifying thought, regardless of who you decide that person to be. My son went to crèche when he was four months old, and although I couldn’t be happier with my decision, there are pros and cons to crèches and nannies. If you're battling to make a choice, then hopefully this post will be of help to you.
Crèche
Pros
- Your child will be in an environment specifically catered to his or her needs.
- The carers are trained in childcare and have the skills to put your mind at ease.
- The carers are not distracted by household chores. Their sole focus is on your child.
- Safety and security are of utmost importance.
- Many crèches supply food and formula, which is a lifesaver for an already overworked parent.
Cons
- Your baby will be exposed to more germs and will potentially get sicker quicker.
- Operating hours are strictly enforced which means little room for error when it comes to traffic or late meetings.
- They can be very pricey.
- Some parents may worry about the carer/child ratio.
- If your child falls ill and can’t go to crèche, you will need to have a backup plan in place.
Nanny
Pros
- Your baby will be looked after in your home, which means no uprooting and change of scenery.
- A nanny can double up as a helper.
- A live-in nanny means an on-call babysitter which allows you to have late meetings without worry (be prepared to pay extra for additional services that don’t fall within your nanny’s role or hours).
- A nanny provides a one-on-one experience and the bond between her and your baby can be extremely special.
Cons
- A nanny might not have all the necessary skills to stimulate your baby.
- She may be distracted by household chores.
- Your baby may not be as socialised as other crèche-going babies his or her age.
- When your nanny goes on leave, you will need to have a backup plan in place.
- If you require a live-in nanny, you'll need to keep additional costs such in mind, including water, electricity and groceries.
Ultimately the decision you make will be the best one for your baby, and for you. Do your research, ask around, get referrals and always trust your instincts.