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Original poster

Help! Can't decide if nursery or nanny best!?

26 replies

Sus19 · 29/05/2008 20:47

Can anyone help me decide if child care at home is better than a nursery environment??

I am looking for childcare for 3 days a week for my 6 month old and 19month old daughters. I can get a nanny for £70 a day and think nursery would be about the same for 2 children. What is best for the child? To be at home in their own environment, napping in their own bed or in a nursery which is structured and regulated with the stimulation of other children??

I think my girls are too young to employ an au-pair, is that right??
Thanks for any help on this - I have brain drain already!!

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Cosette · 29/05/2008 20:55

At this age I would say there's no real benefit to sending them to a nursery over and above a nanny - I think the socialisation side becomes relevant at about age 3.

If you can afford it, then I think you'll find a nanny easier - as you say they will be in their home environment, and own beds for naps etc. Don't underestimate the benefit of not having to get 2 children up, dressed and out to a nursery - far easier to have someone come in, and to be able to leave them mid-way through breakfast if necessary.

You would also expect a nanny to do some nursery duties - ie washing their clothes, tidying bedroom/playroom etc - all of which helps..

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