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Paid childcare

Discuss everything related to paid childcare here, including childminders, nannies, nurseries and au pairs.

Original poster

Why did you choose a childminder or nursery?

26 replies

eastmidlandsnightnanny · 17/01/2011 12:42

Ok I need to start looking at childcare options for baby ready for end may when he will be 9mths old going back 4days a week but for first 8-10wks I will do 3 days and then husband will have a day off for 2-3wks so for first 12wks we will need 3 days a week then up to 4days after that time. Anyway I cant decide between a childminder or nursery (nanny not an option we couldnt afford one).

Going to visit both to try and help me decide.

we need childcare for 9hrs a day either 7.30-4.30 (ideal as I prefer to work 8-4 and also would get some time with baby after work) or 8-5.

So what made you choose a childminder over a nusery or vice versa?

Does anyone mix as this was another option 3 days with one and then when we need the extra day have it with the other?

thanks

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HappyMummyOfOne · 17/01/2011 13:02

When weighing up childcare, a nursery would always be my first choice. Didnt need it with DS but would for a subsequent child should we change our minds and have another but do use an after school club which runs the same as a nursery. Pro's were

  • staff cover for holidays and sickness so no paying twice or having to cover days/weeks.
  • no friends/relatives visiting
  • child on site at the nursery unless a rare trip so I would know where they were at all times
  • lots of others of similar ages to play with and equipment to do so
  • no own child to be favourite
  • no school runs or shopping trips in bad weather
  • more than one adult
  • no dogs or pets
  • staff have chosen a career in childcare rather than choosing it as an option to be home with their own children
  • very low risk of being given notice if a better paid child comes along - especially if part time.

Its personal choice at the end of the day, it depends what you are looking for in a childcare provider.