Defining Child Care Terms
As you research this topic, you’ll find that facilities can be described in the following ways: Child Care Centers, Family Child Care Facilities, In-home Caregivers, and Kith and Kin. Before you begin to think about how your child will fit in with a generic day-care center, you’ll want to research all the options. In this guide, you’ll find all you need to know in order to choose the child care for you.
As you research this topic, you’ll find that facilities can be described in the following ways:
Child Care Centers
Child care centers are also known as nursery schools or preschools. Because these facilities are usually open early, they provide working parents with a dependable and practical setting in which to leave their children during the day. Many parents select this option because they want their children to be socialized with other children and to be taken care of by multiple caregivers. Child care centers also provide standardized programs, which can be important to parents. In researching Las Vegas resources, you’ll find independent centers and nonprofit centers run by churches, universities or the community as well as franchised operations.
Family Child Care Facilities
They provide care services for children in the provider’s home. Typically, the caregiver also takes care of her own children at the same time. Nevada regulates family child care and mandates that only four of the children may be less than two years of age, and only two of the children may be less than one year of age. Parents may select this option because they prefer a single caregiver, a facility which is closer to home or work, and a more affordable option. The children may prefer the smaller setting where they feel more secure, as it’s more like their own home.
In-home Caregivers
In-home caregivers are also called babysitters, nannies or housekeepers, and they take care of and watch a child in his or her own home. This is a choice among parents who believe their children will be not only more comfortable but safer and more secure under their own roof. With child care in the home, the parents can be more aware of the interaction between the caregiver and the child, and it’s certainly more convenient. It’s also an option for children who have special needs.
Kith and Kin
This usually refers to child care services provided by a family or extended-family member, such as a relative, friend or neighbor. Typically, the child is taken care of in the caregiver’s home or in the child’s home. It should be noted that many states do not regulate care provided by relatives, friends and neighbors. In Nevada, if a person who is not a parent, grandparent or guardian cares for even one child within the state, that person must be a licensed child care provider. For many parents, this option is ideal because the child is provided with a loving caregiver, one who is trusted and makes the child feel secure.
Sometimes parents use kith and kin care because their schedules, budgets or transportation problems limit their other child care options. Parents who use this kind of care consider themselves lucky to have a relative, friend, or neighbor care for their children when flexibility is needed. When weighing this option one must consider how important socialization and a structured learning environment are to their child.
Sometimes parents use this type of care because their schedules, budgets or transportation problems limit their other child care options.
More Information
If you want more information about license status, complaints, or inspection of child care facilities, then call the City of Las Vegas at (702) 229-6281. You can also get a list of care providers, file a complaint, or report an unlicensed establishment.
For help in selecting a safe and healthy child care setting, visit Child Care Aware at www.childcareaware.org or call 800-424-2246.
