Nanny or Daycare? Here Are the Pros & Cons of Both Child Care Options! by Jill Ceder, LMSW, JD

If you're going back to work soon and not sure what child-care situation is right for you, here's some help. Below are the pros and cons of daycare and nannies: 

Pros of daycare include: 

• building social skills
• lots of toys, books and resources
• follows state regulations for safety
• multiple teachers with varied experience and personalities 
• the cost

Cons of daycare include:

• more germs and illnesses
• strict sick policies
• more accidents 
• less flexibility for parent schedules

Pros of hiring a nanny include:

• more parental control in terms of schedule and activities
• individual attention
• easier logistics since a nanny comes to your home
• consistency for your child 
• convenience for you

Cons include:

• conflicting parenting styles
• high costs
• tardiness issues
• no coverage for sick or personal time

Consider the pros and cons and do what's best for your family. Good luck!