Don't know what to do about daycare/Pre-K

The center Amber currently goes to is T-Thurs for $700/mo. There's been alot of transitions with the staff over the last few months but it seems like they have that worked out (and they are moving to a newer/nicer facility) so I don't have any real "issues" with the place persay..But when I was looking into kindergarten enrollment, I came across the fact that my district offers universal pre-k five days a week. After factoring in a before care/after care daycare program to cover while she's not in pre-k, it saves us about a hundred a month AND it's five days a week vs. three (the other two my ex or I are schlepping her to Merrick and back, or Coram and back). It's a better solution but I still feel like I'm not doing the right thing. Her best friend transitioned to the pre-k class in her district, so there's only a handful of kids in her current program that she plays with. I feel like she would at least have a chance of meeting kids in her district by taking advantage of the pre-k program. I just feel soo..bad?? Like she's been through enough changes, etc. My other concern is that the daycare closes at 5:00 and even though I've made arrangements to change my hours to accomodate picking up/dropping off, I'm still concerned they'll be those moments where I CAN'T get to her in time; at least in the current situation I can grab her from across 110 and then head back to the office quick. I'm soo confused!

Re: Don't know what to do about daycare/Pre-K

In that case, I would definitely go with the district pre-K program. It sounds like a much better option with your schedule and I'm sure it's reputable. It's amazing how quickly kids adjust. What will you do in the summer?

Re: Don't know what to do about daycare/Pre-K

I would go with your District"s program. Seems like it would work out better for you. Kids are pretty resilient, and she may like it even more than daycare. When you talk to her about it I would made it a big deal like shes all grown up and is going to school, make it something special.

Re: Don't know what to do about daycare/Pre-K

Re: Don't know what to do about daycare/Pre-K

I would go with the district's program. It's less expensive AND gives her an opportunity to make friends now.

I'm a big proponent of having kids in their own district, meeting their friends before elementary school. It would also help you to meet more moms from your area. I would get a group of you together to work out childcare arrangements in the event you can't get to her in time. I have a mom in my daughter's class that arranges Friday afternoon playdates every week. When I have off on a holiday & she's not off, it will all benefit us.