Back to school is here, and with it the childcare puzzle. No last minute plan possible, you have to anticipate. Nanny, crèche, grandparents... Do you feel a little lost? Not for long with our guide on the subject.
Caring for your child:what are the possible solutions?
Finding a childcare arrangement that will suit everyone can be stressful. Do not panic, here is a brief overview of the different possibilities for having your child looked after.
The nativity scene
The crèches welcome children aged 2.5 months to 4 years. These establishments are managed by qualified staff, so you can be sure that your child will be in good hands. Another advantage:living in a community will make it easier for your little one to start school. However, note that the crib:
The live-in nanny
Keeping your child at home is a great way to not disturb him. He keeps his bearings and you are reassured. Do you know any parents interested in this type of childcare? Be aware that you can jointly employ the nanny. She will come to your homes alternately. Only downside:the absence of community life to play and socialize.
Aid to look after your child
Need a financial boost? Depending on the type of childcare chosen and the age of your child, you may be entitled to the Supplement for free choice of childcare (CMG) or a tax credit. Check with your Caf.
Grandparents
Childcare with grandpa and grandma, a good plan? Financially, no doubt, their prices defy all competition. Another advantage:entrusting the apple of your eyes to your grandparents is the assurance of going to work with peace of mind. Finally, in case of delay, you can count on them, they will not greet you with a scowl reminding you that they "close" at 7 p.m. However, the absence of an employer/employee relationship will often prevent you from clearly expressing your wishes, which can be a source of tension.
The Babysitter
Unless you have found the rare pearl, this mode of care is rather to be reserved for occasional outings. A flexible childcare method, its prices, whether you employ it directly or go through an agency, are however high. Here again, solutions exist such as the CESU (Universal Service Employment Check) which opens up to a tax credit.
The study
Usually led by a trained teacher or facilitator, after-class study is a good way for your child to decompress or just do homework:a good option for parents who finish around 6/7 p.m. The only concern, the time spent at school may seem too long and cause a feeling of weariness in the child. Not to mention that the number of places is limited.
The approved childminder
This early childhood professional takes care of children at home or in MAM (Maison d'Assistants Maternels) full day or extracurricular. It is supervised by the PMI (Protection Maternal and Infantile) and often controlled. Your little one is in good hands. However, for some parents, follow-up is insufficient. So do not hesitate to stop by from time to time to kiss your toddler (and see if everything is fine).
How to find an approved maternal assistance?
• Consult the website www.mon-enfant.fr, section " I am looking for " ;
• Ask for a list of professionals from a relay of childminders (RAM) ;
• Contact your town hall or the maternal and child protection service (PMI) of your departmental council.
The au pair
Of foreign origin, the au pair lives under your roof and looks after your children in exchange for accommodation and a low salary. Children are cared for in your home while learning a new language. Enough to kill two birds with one stone! If this mode of childcare is becoming more and more attractive, keep in mind that you will most often be dealing with a student with no professional experience in childcare.
And the child in all this?
Not easy to separate from mom and dad all day. So that your child does not experience this experience as suffering, prepare him early enough. Reassure him by explaining why he is being kept and that this brief separation is also a way for him to grow.
The childcare methods each have their own advantages. The main thing is to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and your child's balance.
