If you’re a new parent, it’s hard to let go. While your little one is probably tiring you out with sleepless nights, at the same time, you likely wonder when it will be the right time to send your infant to daycare in Phoenix, AZ. It’s hard to imagine any time apart from your new baby, but you will need to return to work. Plus, children benefit from seeing new faces and having the experience of being around other children in a learning environment.
Of course, it’s important to consider your options when you begin daycare and to do your research to find the best fit for your child and your family. Read on to find out when to send your infant to daycare.
When should I start my baby in daycare?
While children can start in daycare as early as six weeks old, there are a number of factors you should consider before sending your child. For example, the length of parental leave for you and your spouse will be a critical factor. Some workplaces only provide six weeks of leave, but you may be able to combine this with your spouse’s leave or extend your own leave.
Your financial responsibilities and how important it is to draw a paycheck will also be factors to take into account. You may also choose other childcare options, such as having family members pitch in.
Experts say daycare can begin at six weeks. Still, many parents prefer to wait if their financial and work situation allows them to. This can help establish a secure attachment between you and your baby. It will also allow you to better understand the infant’s sleeping and feeding patterns, as well as provide time for the umbilical cord to heal.
Babies born prematurely or with other medical issues may not be ready to go to daycare for longer, as some daycare facilities are not prepared to meet their needs. In these cases, you may opt for in-home care providers, family members, au pairs or nannies to provide coverage.
Searching for a daycare
The best time to look for a daycare is before the baby is born. This way, you’ll have time and energy to devote to researching options and be able to choose the best one. If you wait until the end of parental leave to find childcare, you’ll likely be left scrambling to find an opening.
By searching early, you’ll be able to get on a wait list for your preferred daycare. You’ll also be able to devote yourself to finding the right place for your child without the hard work of caring for an infant at the same time. Once it comes time for your parental leave to end, you can rest easy knowing your infant will be going to the daycare you think will be the best choice.
You want a caring, nurturing daycare for infants in Phoenix, AZ. Magical Star Preschool is a family-oriented childcare center with a team of loving teachers. We have a safe, warm environment that is welcoming to all children from six weeks to 12 years old. Contact us or stop by to learn more about how our preschool could be right for your child.