There are different childcare alternatives that you, as a parent, can choose for your child. However, the biggest dilemma you will face is taking your child to a specialised facility or offering home-based childcare. Well, you do not have to worry; below is a detailed guide comparing the two options. 

Home-Based Childcare

Home-based childcare is an arrangement where your child stays at home during their developmental years. The advantage of home-based childcare is that you can spend more time with your child. Therefore, it is an opportunity to instil family values, identify the child's talents and encourage the child to adopt a particular worldview. Below are several interventions you can take to ensure the success of home-based childcare:

• If possible, hire a childcare professional to provide childcare services. Remember, childcare is different from parenting.
• Choose a childcare program for your child. These programs help children learn skills and values that help them adapt to formal schooling.
• Create a formal learning program. This way, your child can quickly adapt to the schooling plan.
• Consider regular formal and informal assessments to establish the success of the intervention.  

Childcare Facilities

Childcare facilities could either be formal or informal. Formal facilities have a structured program that mimics standard school programs. As such, you take your child to the facility in the morning and pick them up in the evening. Informal childcare facilities, also known as family daycares, are an arrangement where you take your child to the home of a childcare provider. Although your child might not spend the entire day at the facility, they benefit from the expertise of their childcare provider. For instance, they learn how to socialise with other kids and build on their communication skills. 

Parents who wish to take their kids to formal childcare facilities must conduct thorough assessments to establish a suitable facility. Some considerations to make include:

• What is the facility's child-teacher ratio at the facility? A low ratio ensures teachers have adequate time to address the learners' needs.
• Is the childcare facility located conveniently? You should have an easy time taking your child to the facility.
• How safe is the facility? Look out for risks such as steep staircases, faulty playing equipment, overcrowded classrooms, and dirty washrooms.
• What are the facility's rules and regulations? They should instil discipline and enable your child to deal with various challenges. 

Choosing a childcare option for your child should now be easy. The general rule is ensuring your child gets the best out of your preferred choice. For more information on childcare, contact a professional near you.