Experts often say that the early stages in a child’s life play a crucial role in the child’s development and growth. It is the stage of tremendous growth with brain development at its peak. According to UNESCO, early childhood care aims at the holistic development of a child’s emotional, social, cognitive and physical needs in order to build a sound and broad foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.
It has been discovered that mothers were 40% more likely to report they had personally felt the negative impact of childcare issues on their careers. Childcare challenges have become a drawback, especially for mothers who make job decisions based on childcare considerations rather than in the interest of their financial situation and career goals.
When problems arise with childcare, parents scramble to find alternative options or miss work to care for their children. For lots of parents, that insecurity may lead to taking some decisions such as working fewer hours, taking a pay cut or leaving the job altogether. American businesses, meanwhile, lose an estimated $12.7 billion annually because of their employee’s childcare challenges. Nationally, the cost of lost earnings, productivity and revenue due to the childcare crisis totals an estimated $57 billion each year. (Washington: CAP 2018)
Since the changing nature of our financial environment necessitates a two-income household, quality and readily available childcare is important to parents as it enables them take advantages of opportunities for career advancement. Also, the importance of quality childcare cannot be over-emphasized on the child, as quality childcare directly influences the child’s ability to learn, build healthy relationships and be the best version of himself.
The earliest experiences of a child have direct impact on the brain development and lay good foundation for future success. The use of quality childcare can serve as an essential tool in providing the right environment for positive child development. It is the role of the parents to ensure that their children are in the care of a good caregiver who is loving and responsive to children’s needs, provides a stimulating environment and engages with children by talking and playing with them frequently.
These are some qualities to look out for when choosing caregiver for your child
- GENUINE AND NATURAL AFFINITY FOR CHILDREN: A good caregiver should be one that is loving and responsive, sociable and interested in children. This worker feels comfortable around kids, gives hugs and cuddles freely and supports children in building healthy relationships with other children and adults. A friendly and positive attitude when around children is a sign of this trait.
- COMMUNICATION SKILLS: A good child caregiver talks to children and encourages them to express themselves creatively and through words.
- TRAINED IN CPR AND FIRST AID: When a child caregiver is informed in the knowledge of CPR, first aid and is trained to respond to severe allergies, parents are secured in the knowledge that their children is in safe hands during emergencies.
- LICENSE: The parents should also ensure that the caregiver is licensed by the appropriate agency or possesses an equivalent certificate to show that they are qualified to take the role of a child caregiver.
In conclusion, having shown the importance of quality childcare on the cognitive, emotional and social wellbeing of the child. Parents should view quality childcare as an investment rather than just a necessity. Strong Tower Home Health Services is licensed to provide quality childcare services for your child. Strong Tower’s personnel are well-trained and are excited about children.