Pros and Cons of Childcare Arrangements

It is often difficult decision what Child Care arrangement is right for your family.

Here are some things to consider when deciding on a child care.

Day care:

Pros Cons
Licensed establishment with professional staff Not enough spots for every child
Exposure of the child to new people, children, cultures Expensive unless subsidized
Supervised environment May be too far from your home
  Strictly enforced hours

Live-out nanny:

Pros Cons
No or little paperwork other than CRA employer account and remittance of wages Almost impossible to find
Acceptable solution if your apartment or house is too small More expensive than live-in nanny
Ability to keep distance between the family and the employee Cost increases with the number of children
Regular hours No or limited flexibility
Children can stay home in familiar surroundings  

Live-in nanny:

Pros Cons
The cheapest long-term solution Upfront cost
Flexible hours (split hours, weekends, night, etc.) Requires additional private bedroom
Big selection of qualified applicants (many with medical background) Government program: extensive paperwork  and waiting period
Children can stay home in familiar surroundings Luck of privacy
Shopping, cleaning available  
More close relationship with the Employer & Children