Planning for Child Care during Summer Break
One thing working parents have to think about as the school year draws to a close is planning for child care during summer break. There are a variety of options so it is important to begin thinking about this well before it is needed. Here are some suggestions you may want to consider.
* Discuss child care with friends who have children. They may have suggestions on options for summer break. If they do not work outside of the home, they may even be willing to watch your children while you work. Be sure to discuss payment for their services to maintain your friendship. The extra money will probably be helpful and will help cover food and supplies your children will use.
* Summer camps are one way parents handle child care needs during the summer months. These camps will often last three or more weeks, which means the children are cared for, occupied, able to spend time with or make new friends, and their needs are being met. Begin looking into what types of summer camp programs are available that fit into your budget.
* Day cares are also an option, but these can be expensive. In fact, some parents will pay upwards of $7,000 for summer day care charges. That is a large chunk of money that most families cannot afford. The price may be cut for more than one child but it may not meet your budget.
* Check into the local recreation center to see what types of programs they offer for the summer. This may be a great option especially if you only need to have child care for a couple of weeks rather than the entire summer. Many recreation centers will allow you to enroll your children on a week-by-week basis, but you will want to find out what is available and sign-up as soon as you can as spaces may be limited.
* College students are often available during the summer. If you know a college student, and feel you can trust them, this may be a good option. Be sure to discuss ahead of time what you are willing to pay, what type of activities (if any) you would like to have your children participate in, and how long you will need their services.
* Local colleges and universities may offer programs for the summer. Some programs are set up to allow teachers an opportunity to work during the summer and offer activities they may not be able to do during the regular school year. If you do find a summer program at a local, find out when the sign up deadline is and how much the program will cost.
* Local area worship centers, synagogues and churches will often have vacation Bible schools that will last a week or more. Churches will often stagger their vacation Bible schools so they do not all run at the same time. If your child is interested, they may want to attend more than one.
* Ask family if they can help. Finally, if you have family that lives close by, or even if your family lives far off, ask them if they will watch the children for you while you work. For family that doesn