3.5 Mistakes Families Make when choosing childcare

Choosing someone to care for your child is a big responsibility one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. That's why it's important to avoid making any of the following all-too-common mistakes:

1. Not understanding what makes for a good childcare arrangement: Most parents spend more time researching car purchases than they do in educating themselves about what makes for a good childcare arrangement. Before you start evaluating various childcare arrangements, you'll want to arm yourself with the facts. Find out what options are available. Analyze what you want for your child and for yourself. Know health and safety features you should be looking for when you're evaluating a childcare center or home daycare; and what makes for a fun and stimulating childcare program. >> Live-in Nannies: an affordable option
2. Leaving your search until the last minute: Childcare spaces are always in short supply, so it pays to start your childcare search as soon as possible especially if you're looking for childcare for an infant. A rule of thumb, you should have your search well underway by the end of your second trimester of pregnancy. In the case of hiring overseas – 3-5month lead time is required. Keeping in mind Immigration Canada processing times differ from country to country.
3. Neglecting to consider your family's long-term needs: Changing childcare arrangements is hard on both you and your child. That's why it's important to consider your family's long-term needs before settling on a particular arrangement. Will the quiet home daycare environment that is ideal for your sleepy newborn be an equally suitable setting when she becomes a rambunctious toddler? Will your child's space in the company daycare center disappear if you decided to change jobs? Is the nanny you're thinking of hiring committed to your family for the long term or for just a year or two? These are the types of questions that you need to consider before settling on a particular childcare arrangement.

3.5 Failing to understand your responsibilities: - as an employer in the event that you decide to hire a nanny: The moment you hire a nanny or other in-home caregiver, you automatically become her employer; at least in the eyes of Canada Customs Revenue Agency (CCRA). That means that you are responsible for finding out whether she's legally entitled to work in Canada; paying her the minimum wage and complying with other provincial and federal labor laws; withholding EI and CPP, and federal income tax from her pay checks; carrying Worker's Compensation Insurance (where applicable); and notifying the BC Employment Standards Branch that this person is working for you.

Just a quick word of warning: you shouldn't assume that you're off the hook if your caregiver happens to work for you on a part-time basis: even if she makes less than $1000 from you per calendar quarter, the government might still consider her to be your employee.
While there are plenty of other issues to consider when you're choosing childcare for your child, you'll be well on your way to making a good decision if you manage to avoid making these 3.5 mistakes.

Good luck!

EL APOSTOL - Centre Director www.a-procare.com