In Search of the Perfect Child Care

In preparation for our upcoming move, my husband and I have begun searching for child care for both of our kids.  

I must admit, that I become quite emotional at the idea of a starnger watching my kids.  It kills me to think that someone else will spend more time with my children than I will spend every day.  But I set aside my jealousy, and look for the best partner with whom to raise my children.  

Because our daughter is an infant, we don't have to worry yet about things like physical activity, nap schedule, lunch menu, or teaching curriculum.  On the other hand, because she is an infant, she can't tell me if someone failed to feed her or didn't change her diaper all day.  I get knots in my stomach thinking of leaving my precious baby with a stranger.  I suppose when I meet the perfect child care provider, my gut will tell me, and I will have to have faith.

My 3.5 year-old son is the smartest and most charming little boy I have ever known.  For him, I need a school that will challenge him, and provide him with ample social opportunities.  The qualifications of his "teacher" are extremely important.  However, I find my son learns just as much, if not more, from his fellow classmates.  For this reason, I now find myself asking questions about the other students.  Is there a bully in the class?  Are the students well-behaved?  Is the class culturally diverse?  

We have found the school for my son, but we are still searching for a perfect arrangement for our daughter.  My son's school is very clean and very professional.  The school does not provide lunch or snacks, so I will have to provide his food.  What do I pack?  PB&J sandwiches is the only thing that comes to mind that doesn't require cooking.

I wish that the two kids could attend the same facility so that my son could spend time with his baby sister during the day.  But, because of their age difference and availability, they will attend separate facilities.  

So the search continues, and so does my "mom guilt" for not being able to stay home to raise my children on my own, without the help of a stranger.  But thank God for all the strangers that will come into our lives throughout their childhood that will make them who they will be.

Wish us luck!

-Barbara-