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We often depend
on relatives, friends, baby-sitters and child care providers
to help us take care of our children. Finding the right
person takes work, even if you’re thinking about
someone you know. Make sure the caregiver will pay close,
loving attention to your child and provide a safe place
for exploring and learning. Make sure she follows your
wishes about sleep safety, nutrition, early learning,
guidance and discipline.
Try to spend some time with your child and the new caregiver
at first. Be sure to let the caregiver know how to reach
you. Talk with her often about how your child is doing. |
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Kwong’s grandma cares
for him two afternoons a week.
Relative Care
A relative who takes care
of your child and other related children does
not need a license. But even if you ask a relative
to care for your child, you should be clear
about money, hours and your child’s needs
and safety.
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Monica cares for her own
children as well as her neighbor’s baby.
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Choosing
Someone to Care for Your Child
• Ask people you trust to recommend caregivers.
• Interview several caregivers and check their
references.
• Do a criminal background check on the caregiver
and anyone else who might be alone with your child.
Call Trustline.
• Check that the home is childproof. See page
21.
• Make sure the house is smoke-free.
• Ask the caregiver how she will help your
child learn.
• Ask if there are guns in the home. See page
21.
• Ask if the caregiver knows first aid and
CPR.
• Make sure the caregiver knows about sleep
and food safety, and what to do if your child chokes.
• Talk to the caregiver about following your
wishes in setting limits and discipline. Are you
sure she will never hit or shake your child? |
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Child Care
Without a License
Someone who cares for the children of only one family
in her own home does not need to be licensed. She can
also be caring
for her own children. To find
unlicensed child care, call Child Care or Child Care
Connection.
Or visit www.rrnetwork.org.
In-Home Child Care
Someone who cares for your
children in your home, such as
a nanny, does not need a license. You are the caregiver’s
employer and you have to pay taxes and
follow other regulations. Check references carefully.
You should also make sure the person has a medical checkup.
For more tips, call Child Care Connection.
TrustLine Helps You
Check the Background
of a Provider
TrustLine can do a criminal
background check on unlicensed providers and in-home
care-givers. Call TrustLine or visit
www.trustline.org. |
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| Make sure your caregiver
helps prepare your child for school. |
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