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Daycare vs. Stay at Home Parents
One of the biggest debates going on right now is whether it is better for kids to be raised at home by a stay home parent or whether kids progress better in a daycare environment. Some parents say there is no substitute for having Mom (or Dad) at home during the first years of a child’s life. Others believe that daycare provides a more structured environment where children can learn socialization skills and have friends to interact with outside the home. Of course, for many parents, working outside the home is not so much a choice as an economic necessity. But if you are lucky enough to have a choice in the matter and are considering your options, here are some things to think about.

Pros of Daycare

Learning- Kids often can get a head start by going to day care, as they are introduced to subject matter including basic language, math and art skills that will come in handy as they prepare for kindergarten.
Socialization- kids can learn valuable socialization skills by interacting with kids in their age group including communication, negotiation, sharing and a sense of independence. And since toddlers quickly become used to the classroom type setting, the transition to kindergarten later usually happens much more smoothly.
Activities- often day care providers provide structured activities including swimming, art, and even field trips to the zoo, park or fire department or museum
Lets parent work outside the home- for some parents, a career is a key part of their mental well being or an economic necessity. Sending the kids to daycare can be a way of keeping your career on the fast track and can provide the economic resources you need to bring your child up in the best environment possible. So if the thought of watching Barney the Dinosuar reruns makes you crazy, this may be a better choice!

Pros of Parent at Home

Parental bonding- taking care of kids at home can enhance a loving, bonding relationship. Parent and child alike can benefit from teaching your child about life and instilling your values.
Putting things in perspective- sometimes taking a break from the “work” world can provide experience and perspective you just can’t get when you’re doing the office grind. These first few years go by fast so if you want to maximize your time with your child, now is the time to do it.
Economic benefits- there is no doubt about the fact that daycare is expensive. You may find that staying home saves money in the long run, as you can reduce your expenditures on items such as commuting, professional wardrobe and dry cleaning costs. So spend some time figuring out the true cost of working including taxes, automobile or travel expenses, commute time, business wardrobe and the cost of daycare itself. You may be surprised to learn that staying at home may actually save money vs. working outside the home.

So while you are contemplating which option is best for you, remember that if you think ahead and work with your child, both staying at home and sending your child to quality daycare can provide a healthful, supportive, learning experience for a child. And since every couple and every situation is different, use your judgment to create the best situation, and remember you can always change course if needed.