Choosing the right type of childcare can be a difficult decision for any new parent. Two popular childcare options that many parents decide between are daycare centers and hiring a nanny. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, which we’ll outline in this article. Read on to get all of the details and consideration when it comes to choosing daycare vs nanny. And remember, there is no right or wrong choice! Your choice should reflect your family’s specific needs, and your choice could change over time as your needs change.
Daycare vs Nanny: The Pros and Cons of Daycare
Daycare Pros
Starting with the positives: daycare centers provide a much more structured environment for kids to learn and socialize with other kids. They are typically licensed and regulated, which can provide peace of mind for parents. Daycares also offer a variety of activities and programs that can help kids develop new skills and interests. Additionally, daycare centers offer more predictable hours and schedules, making it easier for you as a parent to plan your day. While daycare centers can be quite expensive, they tend to be more affordable than hiring a nanny. Read more about typical daycare costs around the country.
Daycare Cons
The downsides of daycares is that there may be long waiting lists depending on where you live. (We recommend that you think about and make this decision early!) Children can also get sick more easily when they are in a group setting. Lastly, there is a lack of one-on-one attention that children might receive in a home environment.
Daycare vs Nanny: The Pros and Cons of Nannies
Nanny Pros
Hiring a nanny, on the other hand, provides one-on-one care for your child, often in your own home. This can be more convenient for you, allowing you to “drop off” and “pick up” your child from your own home. Nannies can sometimes provide more flexible schedules than daycares, like extending hours one week or through the weekend. Nannies can also provide specialized care such as language immersion or educational activities. Additionally, your child often receive more personalized attention and care in a home environment with one designated caretaker.
Nanny Cons
The cons of hiring a nanny is that it can be more expensive than daycare. You may also have to pay for the nanny’s taxes, insurance, and vacation days if you want to pay competitively. It’s also strongly advised that you vet and really trust a nanny before you hire them to do the job. You don’t want to let a stranger in your home with your child unless you trust them and their references. With that being said, it can sometimes be more difficult to find a reliable and trustworthy nanny. Read more about creating a nanny contract.
Daycare vs Nanny: Which Choice is More Popular?
When it comes to popularity, both daycare and nannies are widely used. According to a 2019 report by Care.com, 71% of parents who use childcare use some form of daycare, while 29% use a nanny or babysitter. However, this can vary depending on where you live and other factors.
Average Costs: Daycare vs Nanny
In terms of cost, the average hourly rate for a nanny in the United States is around $15 to $25 per hour. However, this can range from $10 to $35 per hour depending on where you live and the nanny’s qualifications and experience. Full-time nannies typically earn a salary of $30,000 to $45,000 per year. And as mentioned above, you may be expected to pay for some portion of their taxes, insurance, and a number of vacation days.
For daycare centers, the cost can vary vastly depending on its location and type of center. The average annual cost of full-time care for an infant in a center-based daycare in the United States is around $9,000 to $11,000. For a 4-year-old child, the average cost drops to around $8,000 to $9,000 per year.
Generally speaking, the most expensive daycare centers tend to be those that offer specialized services or programs. Daycares that offer a curriculum focused on early childhood education, language immersion, or special needs care may be more expensive than centers that do not offer these specialized programs. Additionally, daycare centers that offer extended hours or weekend care may also have higher fees. In some cases, daycare centers located in more affluent areas may also be more expensive than those located in lower-income areas. This is because the cost of living and operating a business in these areas may be higher.
Tips to decide: Daycare vs Nanny
It’s important to note that the most expensive option (whether its nanny or daycare center) may not necessarily mean it’s the best fit for your family. When creating a childcare plan, it’s important to consider factors such as location, safety, staff qualifications, and the quality of care provided. Ultimately, the most important thing is that your child is safe, happy, and well-cared for.
Here are a few tips that can be helpful for parents who are trying to decide between daycare and a nanny:
- Start your search early
Whether you’re looking for a daycare center or a nanny, it’s important to start your search early. This will give you enough time to research different options and find the best fit for your family.
- Consider recommendations
Ask friends, family members, and other parents for recommendations on daycare centers or nannies. You can also use online resources such as Care.com or Sittercity to find qualified nannies in your area.
- Research licensing and regulations:
If you’re considering a daycare center, be sure to research licensing and regulations in your state. This can give you peace of mind knowing that the center meets certain standards and is regularly inspected for safety and quality.
- Conduct interviews
Whether you’re hiring a nanny or selecting a daycare center, it’s important to conduct interviews with the candidates. This will give you a chance to ask questions and get a better sense of whether they are a good fit for your family.
- Trust your instincts:
Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose daycare or a nanny should be based on your instincts and what feels right for your family. Don’t be afraid to trust your gut and make the decision that works best for you and your child.
Additional Resources
- National Association for Family Child Care provides information on in-home child care options.
- National Association for the Education of Young Children offers resources for parents and caregivers on early childhood education and development.