Dorie Meek is director of the Infant & Family Support Program, provided by Saint John's Health Center in partnership with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. Meek answers questions concerning children ages birth to 5 years old.
I have two questions about child care. What is your advice regarding a nanny at home versus a child care center for a working parent? And, how do you feel about different gender baby-sitters?
— Figuring It All Out
Dear Figuring,
I applaud your search for answers and encourage you to keep asking questions. While no parent ever figures it all out, it is our job to keep informed about the latest research and opinions regarding the development of our children.
I’m going to assume that you have an infant or toddler as you mention “child care” versus preschool, which usually begins around 3 years old. It is my opinion — and the operative word here is opinion — that a licensed home-based child care is preferable to a nanny and here’s why.
In this country, we have no licensing or accreditation systems for a nanny. We do have a few nanny referral agencies that will, for a hefty fee, do a background check but that’s it. There is no guarantee of child development knowledge, no confirmation of education and, quite frankly, an abundance of cheap labor. This is a nightmare for early childhood experts as our most treasured resources can be placed in a daily care situation with non-professionals who, often with the best interests at heart, can harm our children.
Ask yourself: Are you hiring a nanny rather than paying tuition so you can save money? Your child’s education is the most important investment you’ll ever make. Are you looking to have someone do some housecleaning? Try cleaning your own home with an infant or toddler around, it’s next to impossible when they’re awake. If you can’t do it, how can they?
Take a look at a quality, licensed, home-based child care center. I think you’ll like what you see.
On your second question, a quality caregiver is a quality caregiver no matter what gender. What you are comfortable with and what your child needs will indicate the answer. Good luck.
— Dorie
(Dorie Meek is director of the Infant & Family Support Program, provided by Saint John’s Health Center in partnership with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. Meek answers questions concerning children ages birth to 5 years old. Submit your questions to “Dear Dorie” at meek@smmusd.org, or call (310) 452-6132; fax (310) 452-6392).
