Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

We are seriously considering this option since we think we will have more flexibility with it in terms of drop off and pick up times, etc.
Plus my DH works a rotating and schedule and there will be weeks where we don't need child care 5 days a week.

So it seems like a better option for us.

Does anyone use or plan a nanny or sitter rather than daycare?

If so, where did you find this person?
I'm at a loss where to even begin to find reputable people...

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

We looked into it but it was too much money for us. However, it may make sense when we have 2 kids.

I found a bunch of contacts on care.com that seemed good.

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

My friend (a former elementary school teacher - now SAHM) is doing day care from her home... She incorporates lessons into her day - so the kids are doing something other than just "playing". KWIM???
She's in West Babylon.

FM me for details.

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

My DH has a rotating schedule too. I give birth in May and plan to go back to work in late September/early October. I figured it out that I on;y need someone 5 days in October and 7 days in Nov & Dec, unless of course something comes up for him at work. I was going to use my MIL and father, but I am also looking into child care locally in someone's home or having someone come to me. I think it's personal preference. With day care centers, you may need to pay more b/c you are not necessarily a set P/T slot. GL!

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

I have a nanny. She was referred by a former colleague who she "lived in" with for 14 years (she doesnt live with us). I'd start by telling everyone you know that you're looking... you'd be surprised where you get leads!

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

we looked into it but we wanted a small, in home daycare (ours has 4-5 kids and 2-3 people working). our nanny would have been wonderful but she would have been very expensive (even with the family friend discount we would have gotten). plus, i really wanted DD to have more socialization and interaction than with just the nanny.

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

My DH's cousin actually watches children in her home, she lives in East Islip. If your interested you can FM me and i'll find out information from her or give you her number.. If I do end up going back to work after dc is born then she will most likely be watching my baby. Day care centers are so expensive. We will probably look into something when dc is 3.

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

Thanks for the suggestions girls!
I'm in Holbrook so I would need someone close by to that.

I have seen the websites like care.com and sitters.com but always wondered how reputable these people were.

I feel so strange leaving my baby with a stranger but I don't know what else to do...

This has been on my mind since my BFP...

It's so hard!

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

I know you said you won't need someone full time, but you may run into problems like that. Most sitters who watch in their own homes are only allowed a certain number of kids, and they may not want to give up a slot for a part time child when they can fill it with a full time child. And if you have a nanny just for your child, they will also want a set schedule and salary. Just something for you to be aware of.

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?

Re: Does anyone use or plan to use a nanny/sitter rather than daycare?