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Hey Dope Moms!
Choosing a daycare for your newborn is like one of those "choose your own adventure" books, but instead of hunting for treasure, you're seeking the perfect second home for your tiny human. It's a world filled with more questions than answers, and figuring out the right path can feel like cracking the Da Vinci code.
The best age for daycare—ah, the million-dollar question without a one-size-fits-all answer. Every little munchkin develops at their own pace, and every family has unique needs. Experts suggest anytime after 12 weeks allows a good balance between maternal bonding and the practicalities of parental leave in the US.
But hey, we do what we need to do, right? The average maternity leave in the United States is two weeks. That is all the time some mothers get, and if you are put in this situation, we have to remember that it is not solely our responsibility to look after and care for our kids. We must trust that the Lord who brought them here is responsible for their well-being and will care for them. We pray for our children and trust in the Lord. This is not an easy circumstance, but it is one for which the Lord will grace us.
Alright, real talk. Daycare for newborns can be a fabulous option for working moms wanting (or needing) to get back to the grind. Quality daycare centers offer more than just babysitting—they provide environments where your baby can learn those vital social cues early on. They will be spending time with other children, and it allows you to return to work. Sometimes, we don't have an option, which makes daycare the best choice. Having to put your child in daycare should not be a guilt we wear as moms.
Prepping your broke bestie for daycare is all about routine, routine, routine. Try to simulate the environment of the daycare to make the transition smoother. And remember, it's not just them adjusting—you're in this emotional rollercoaster together.
The amazing thing about babies is that they are very adaptable. They have no issue adjusting to the new set up of daycare. On your newborn's first day at daycare, consider getting there early to allow you time to sit in the car and cry if needed. Check the night before to make sure the diaper bag has everything your child will need, pump milk for the next day, or pack the formula and bottles you typically use, but also know that it is a daycare and if you forget something, they will probably have emergency backups.
When wearing your "Mom Project Manager" hat, armed with a spreadsheet and a dream, choosing the right daycare feels daunting. Trust me, I've been there. I've visited potential places and asked hard-hitting questions, and yes, those gut feelings matter and are all part of choosing the right daycare.
When selecting a "newborns in daycare" facility, ensure it meets high licensing and accreditation standards. Visit different centers to observe how caregivers interact with the children and check the infant-to-staff ratio—ideally, one caregiver for every three newborns, which is crucial for providing adequate attention and care.
Before you start visiting different daycares, have a clear idea of what is important to you, what your dealbreakers are, and what you are willing to compromise on. Needless to say the right daycare will find its way to the top of your list.
A clean and safe environment is non-negotiable for newborns. The daycare should adhere to the highest cleanliness and safety standards, with staff trained in first aid and emergency response. Facilities should be baby-proofed, with secure, child-friendly equipment and toys. Cribs and mattresses should meet safety standards, and the staff should be knowledgeable about potential dangers. All states have a database that keeps records of whether daycares are up to date on compliance, have previous complaints and more. Check out the Delaware Childcare Database.
You're entrusting these people with your heart and soul—literally. Do they have the qualifications and heart for the job? Their approach to care, their philosophies on early childhood development, and their genuine warmth are your clues.
The qualifications and experience of the daycare staff are critical. Ensure that caregivers have appropriate training in early childhood education and experience handling newborns. Ensure their state-wide training is up to date as well. Staff should also display a warm and responsive attitude towards children, which is vital for your newborn's emotional and social development. Credentials don't tell the whole story of daycare staff; it's just one piece.
Being in the loop is crucial. The best daycares make staying updated on your mini-me's day-to-day adventures easy. Whether it's an art project or their first attempt at saying "mama," you'll want in on all the deets. Daycares should be provided access to apps that allow you to stay updated on your child's daily progress. Some even allow you to access cameras to see what's going on inside the classrooms at any moment. Higher-end technological services can sometimes lead to a higher price tag. Everything is not lost if you cannot afford a facility like this. There are still good in-home daycares that give
If your kiddo's daycare meals are healthier than yours, they're probably on the right track. I'm kidding (kind of). Seriously, though, what and how they feed the kids can mirror your values, whether organic produce or no sugary snacks. But that will not come into play until your child has passed the newborn stage.
Since switching daycares can be a long process, it's good to consider the other classrooms and features of the daycare that your child will age into. You can also ensure that they are adhering to safe milk storage processes. They track how long the milk has been out and how it has thawed. They don't refreeze thawed milk and follow specific formula instructions based on the brand.
Sometimes, it's not about the spreadsheet (shocking, I know). It's about that feeling in your gut when you walk into a place and can instantly see your child laughing and learning there.
Ultimately, trusting your instincts plays a big part in choosing a daycare. If you feel uneasy about a facility, keep looking. The right daycare will make you feel confident and secure about leaving your newborn in their care.
And then, before you know it, D-Day (Daycare Day) arrives. Yes, there will be tears (probably more yours than theirs), but there will also be growth, learning, and maybe the chance for you to drink your coffee while it's still hot.
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My leap into the world of daycare felt like jumping off a cliff blindfolded. After the birth of my little one, returning to work loomed over me like a dark cloud. I made calls and faced waitlists and sticker shock. Finally, I turned to spreadsheets to make sense of it all. What I found was disheartening—the cost, the emotional toll, and the overwhelming weight of decisions.
We moved states for a family member to watch over our heart in human form. But this story isn't unique to me; it reflects a larger, systemic problem. Until we find a fix, I hope my tales and tips can light the way for you.
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Choosing a daycare is a hefty decision, but you're not alone. Arm yourself with information, trust those maternal instincts, and remember, this choice is about what's best for your family. You've got this, Mom!
Here's to making your newborn's daycare experience joyful, safe, and enriching.
I am sending you all the strength and coffee.
Looking for some fun activities to do with your kid this spring check out our article: Spring Break Activities for Families
