Finding childcare for your infant can be one of the most difficult choices you will have to make as a new parent.
Before my first child was born I never would have thought that I had a desire to be a stay at home mom. I dreaded leaving my baby when my maternity leave was over, despite the fact that I had two sets of willing grandparents excited to step in and help with childcare. Having family near by to help care for your infant may not always be possible. It is important to understand what all your childcare options are before your baby is born. Many daycare centers have a wait list as long as a year for infant care so you will want to reserve your childcare spot as soon as you make your final decision.
There are pluses and minuses to whatever childcare option you choose. It is important to choose an option that best fits your family's needs.
For more information on the different choices that you have as a parent read:
There are many good books available to help you in your search for quality childcare. For a detailed look on the real effect of childcare on young children read What We Know About Childcare.
