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Types of Part-Time Child Care in Washington 

Child Care Director Resources

27th February 2022

When it comes to taking care of your children, you want quality child care you can trust. You want your child’s mind to thrive from fun activities and new experiences, but also want them to be safe. Fortunately, there are more options than ever when it comes to mindful, affordable care for your children. Full-time care may be the perfect fit for some parents, but there are part-time alternatives you can consider as well. Maybe you are budgeting, have fluctuating schedules, or want to make connections with other parents. Regardless, part-time childcare could fit the bill. 

Here are some alternative part-time childcare options you can consider!

Family Child Care (FCC)

Consider checking out a family child care program. These programs can even extend into private homes if the child cannot attend a childcare facility. An FCC home must meet requirements for child safety and have accreditation from the National Association of Child Care. FCCs offer more flexible schedules than traditional daycare. FCC programs are ideal, and common, for anyone living on base or in military quarters. They foster a safe, playful space for kids, as well as a sense of community among families. This also gives military families peace of mind, especially if one is deployed.

Pods

A childcare “pod” takes in-home child care to the next level. A childcare pod usually consists of two or more families that share childcare responsibilities. They became particularly popular during the lockdown and have proven a perfect alternative after quarantine was lifted. Parents can connect their children with others their age, all while sharing duties with other parents. This helps avoid burnout on the parents’ part, helps with navigating work schedules, and keeps children entertained and engaged. Pods are also kind to parents’ budgets and wallets, all while building solid community foundations among the children.

Workplace Day Care

Parents can also investigate if their work can or will offer workplace daycare services, or vouchers for care. A workplace daycare is typically an on-site facility providing childcare for employees’ children. The services are available at a fee subsidized by the employer, and sometimes they’re offered as a benefit instead. Workplace daycare must meet the same requirements as off-site care providers. This means they’ll have licensed and insured programs, trained teachers and assistants, and, most importantly, a safe environment for children. Not to mention, they will never be too far away from a visit with their parents.

These are only a few options to consider for part-time childcare. Many programs are available for Washington child care. You could even consider becoming a certified childcare service provider! Parents have been seeing the benefits of starting their own pod programs or workplace daycare centers. At the end of the day, you want the best for your family, and so do we. 

Consider Wonderschool as one of your ND child care options. We offer several services, including full- and part-time programs, nanny options, and weekly or subsidy payment options. These services extend on-site or in-home, because we know parents need flexibility for themselves and their children. Contact Wonderschool today for more information about our facilities and caregivers.

  

 

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