Access resources on childcare options
Choosing childcare can be one of the most important decisions you make as a new parent. Therefore, it is important you research your available options. Try discussing the types of childcare you may prefer (and can afford) with your partner or family, as well as what might suit your family’s needs (and that of your child).
Finding good childcare is a process that can take time so start researching your options early. Accept there is no ‘right’ or 'wrong' answer and that your needs may change over time as your family grows and/ or your work demands change.
Whoever you choose to care for your child, you must feel comfortable with your decision. The primary goal for most parents is that their child will be cared for in a nurturing, safe and inspiring environment. Planning is the key to a successful placement, it is a good idea to start this planning well in advance of you needing the care.
Many childcare centres and family day care schemes have long waiting lists. Other options - such as selecting a nanny - can be very time consuming (and costly). Some families use a combination of care options to fit with their caring needs and budget.
Visiting and talking to the carers will be your best chance of finding the best fit for your child. If possible, try to drop into the centre or facility outside of your appointment time so that you can see how things ‘really’ work and try to visit at a couple of different times of the day.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’re entrusting these people with your child. For example, ask to see the meal prepared for that day, take a look at the nappy change area and assess its cleanliness. Ask to see the sleeping area and ask questions about how the staff would respond to a specialist first aid or safety situation.
Childcare choices
The most common types of childcare are:
- Private arrangements such as family members / friends
- Family Day Care
- Centre based childcare or long day care
- Occasional care
- Pre-school
- Nannies, au-pairs and babysitters
- In-home care
Nanny considerations
If you are exploring engaging a nanny, here are some questions for you to consider:
- Are you happy to allow your child to travel in a car with the nanny?
- Will you allow the child to go on outings and excursions with the nanny?
- Will you provide a car and what are their driving skills? Make sure you go for a drive yourself with them as part of the interview.
- Will the nanny be prepared to do light housework, meal preparation, laundry or ironing (particularly while the child is sleeping)?
- What activities and programs will they engage in with your child?
- What experience have they had and what age were the children they cared for?
- How many children at a time have they cared for on a sole charge basis?
- What are the nanny’s strongest skill and attributes?
If you use an agency they can advise what past employers (referees) have experienced.
You will need to agree employment arrangements when using a nanny or nanny service i.e.: Are you (the parent), responsible for employing the nanny, or does the nanny have their own income protection and public liability insurances? Who is responsible for sick leave, annual leave and superannuation? It is important to understand this from the outset.
When employing a nanny, it is important you are aware of your obligations in the case of:
- A workers’ compensation claim.
- Damaged goods in the home.
- Injures to a family member (intentionally or unintentionally).
There are a range of ways to find out about child care options in your local area. You may want to consider looking at options close to your workplace and your home.
Some options in identifying child care include:
- Family, friend and colleague recommendations.
- Internet searches.
- Government and Council websites.
- Social media, including Facebook community groups.
- Babysitter and Nanny websites.
- Nanny and Au Pair agencies - it is worthwhile visiting and considering multiple options as the waiting lists can be long.