Choosing Childcare

If you had read my previous post, you know that I got a phone call the other saying I got the job I tried for. If you didn't then you can read the post here. My new job is a playworker in an after school club which starts in September so it gives me plenty of time to prepare myself. As it is a part time job, I will be working different hours and different days every week so I am thinking on what kind of childcare will Elliw need. Shall I find a babysitter who is flexible and rely on them every week or shall I just put her into a nursery 5 days a week until I finish work 5pm and knowing I have somewhere to put her, but then what am I supposed to do on those 2 or 3 days I am off? As Mia will be in the after school club 5 days a week too.

In my mind im thinking maybe the nursery would be best, as she will be able to interact with other children her own age too. She does love playing with other children, but is it going to be worth it? She will still see me as she will be going to Cylch 9am - 11am then she will be with me until 1pm-ish every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday then on Thursday and Friday she will be with me until 1pm when she will go to nursery. Am I being selfish?

I am looking for a 2nd job so I can pick up my hours, but I would have to work weekend or/and evenings.

There are a lot of things you need to think about when putting your child in nursery.

1. Area.
Where is the nursery. The best place is the closest one to your work/home. You don't want to be spending more money on travelling as what youre already paying for nursery.

2. Staff.
Do you know the staff working there? Do you trust them? Do you get along with them? One main thing I would like to know with Elliw going to nursery is knowing all the staff well. I'd like to know what kind of people they are.

3. Care and fun.
Do you think your child is going to have fun in nursery? Have you heard any good reviews about the nursery. This is very important about a nursery. You need to make sure that your child will 100% enjoy themselves in the nursery.

What would you do? Rely on a babysitter or put her in a nursery?