While I was going to school, to get my degree---I was a teachers aide and illegally, they gave me my own pre-K classes.

I didn't put up much of a fight, I knew I was the best person for the job and didn't really understand the laws or guidelines, until afterward.

First of all, I am sure this is not the only facility to do this---and with the money we pay these days, for childcare, people need to be informed!

One of the things that always bothered me, was the fact that they allowed only VERY small portions for lunch. Not all children have the same appetite and many of them were starving, by 2 PM. The owner of this daycare, said that she felt this society is filled with obese children and they were only allowed X amount, what she felt was acceptable.

Then, anything special that we wanted to do for the kids, came out of our pocket, for supplies. I loved to make special things with the kids, projects that required more than just glue and paper(which was watched and controlled).

I witnessed MANY crabby girls and women, who took it out on the children. I wouldn't go as far as to say "abuse" but certainly not how I would want my child touched by a teacher. Sadly,I had a child, who was being sexually abused and the owner DEMANDED that I not contact the authorities.

I didn't listen to her demands and ended up as a witness but her own mother, dismissed it. Ultimately, I ended up losing my job of 5 years--2 years of teaching Kindergarten.

One thing that I would like to express, to those of you who have children in Daycare---do you really want a stranger, to you and your family, raising your children?? Do they teach the children the morals, that you would??

I have a very good understanding of the economy today and the cost of things--is it worth jeopardizing the future of your child? I know, not everyone can stay home with your children BUT with the cost of childcare these days, unless you make a 6 figure income, it really is a wash.

If your child is in a setting, that you are comfortable with, that is GREAT! I just hope that you will have a better understanding, what goes on behind the scenes, of a daycare. There is always going to be a owner, who is more worried about cutting corners, to increase his/her profit. Somehow, someway, this is going to benefit him/her--not your child!!!

Don't feel out of line, asking questions....make sure your child is getting the best care, possible. Listen to what your neighbors and girlfriends have to say. Don't be afraid to ask for the teacher's experience and references. Get what you are paying for---the best care possible, for your child!

I have been very fortunate, to able to stay home with my kids. I know not everyone is able to do this!! And no, not every facility has issues but the place that I was employed, has a very good reputation---I never would have believed it, if I hadn't lived it.

In the end, it is a business....a business to MAKE money!

Baby Center has a great breakdown of options:

http://www.babycenter.com/0_childcare-options-pros-cons-and-costs_5937.bc

Comments:

comment by dkelly on Mar 10, 2008 6:08 AM ()

this my dear, is called venting thank you for reading!! You are obviously a survivor, something to be proud of.

reply by annaswalking on Mar 10, 2008 4:46 PM ()

I had my older son in a very good daycare situation, run by some wonderful people. Younger son was an infant in a church daycare. Unfortunately not he greatest. I was happier when I found a lady in my own church who had her own kids to take care of him. That was much better.

comment by teacherwoman on Mar 9, 2008 6:36 PM ()

yes! stay at homes moms are one of the best options, not always focused on "teaching" but the love, affection, attention--much better! Some do, some don't....we had a lot of Moms who gave up their jobs, to stay home with their children--it is the best thing you can do, IF you have patience. lol

reply by annaswalking on Mar 10, 2008 4:48 PM ()

comment by blogmom on Mar 9, 2008 6:33 AM ()

we are living in a material world...many have to hold 2 jobs, to survive. I agree, some things are not necessity--nothing should come before the children but it just isn't that way, for everyone. I have met a lot of women, who would never give up their jobs--even if it meant only spending an hour with their children, a night. We use to have kids(most) that would come in, from 6AM-6PM...what kind of life is that?? I don't want to offend those single, working Moms out there--and it isn't only a "Mom" factor, it is also the fathers. The first 5-6 yrs are so crucial!! Our kids need us.

reply by annaswalking on Mar 10, 2008 4:53 PM ()

I just can't understand the idea of people not wanting to take interest in their own child! That is pretty sad.

reply by blogmom on Mar 10, 2008 7:10 AM ()

the worth, I think is different for each individual. I am just happy to hear that your son is being raised by his parents, I really wish everyone could do this but I understand how difficult it is. Thanks for reading I worked with special needs children(some adults), for 3 yrs, on the weekends--when I wasn't teaching. This particular set-up, was children and adult's, that the parents could not longer take care of--or didn't have an interest in taking care of----it was very sad

reply by annaswalking on Mar 9, 2008 10:52 AM ()

say too lol

comment by wickedwitchofthewest on Mar 8, 2008 7:18 PM ()

tyvm-see, that bothers me to see a child come home hungry-not with how much you pay. As long as you are comfortable with the staff, GREAT and I am glad that you have stood up, when you had something to day.

reply by annaswalking on Mar 8, 2008 7:25 PM ()