Inexpensive Child Care Ideas

One of the most difficult issues a working parent has to cope with is finding reliable child care at affordable prices. When my kids were pre-school aged, I took a night job rather than pay a sitter for our four children. I felt like I only worked to pay my child care provider.

There are many options to consider when seeking suitable child cares, below are just a few:

• Relatives. Grandparents, aunts or other family members can be a terrific solution if they live in the area. Not only is it possible to pay reduced costs, children also benefit from spending time with family and strengthening those bonds.
• Opposite shifts. If family isn't near by, working opposite shifts provides a way of having both parents play a major role in child care duties. One draw back to this option is reduced time between spouses, so planning dates nights without the kids is crucial.
• In-home daycare. In-home daycare providers are often less expensive than a daycare center. This option can also be a closer simulation to being at home with Mom and Dad.
• Before/After-school programs. If the children are of school age, many elementary schools offer before and after school care. Most of these programs offer intramural sports and crafts as well as assistance with homework. Some of these programs are also income based so it can be a convenient and affordable option.
• Daycare Provider Sharing. Often times childcare providers give discounts for full time status. Sharing part-time hours with another working mom could potentially save daycare dollars. Be sure to outline in the contract which days each child will be attendance for billing purposes.
• Barter. In today's ailing economy, daycare terms are more negotiable than ever. Perhaps there are services that could be traded between families to reduce childcare costs. For instance, a hair stylist might offer complementary hair cuts for the family in exchange for reduced rates for child care. This arrangement could add up to substantial savings.
• Au Pairs. If you have multiple children, a nanny or au pair may be the most economical option. Part of an au pair's salary is off-set by room and board. Most au pairs come from abroad so the children get the benefit of learning cultural and language skills.

Child care is a service that impacts families on a daily basis. It is essential to have a place that is safe, fun and educational for children. Paying less for child care does not mean a reduction in quality. Be creative when seeking the ideal daycare environment for your children.