Why Good Childcare is So Hard to Find in Southern Idaho

Many parents stress and worry about childcare every day, for many reasons. Unless you are a stay-at-home parent, childcare is an everyday stress. Some families are lucky and have a family member or close friend that can watch their children, but for many, it is a nanny you may not have known until you interviewed them, or a daycare that you don't know any of the employees at. In an ideal world, mom or dad or both could stay home with their children forever, but unfortunately, parents have to work and this isn't always an option. It is well known that the childcare system in Idaho is not the best in the country, but why is finding childcare in the Magic Valley so tough?

Childcare in the Magic Valley

Childcare in Southern Idaho is not easy to find. Daycares are overcrowded and waiting lists can often stretch out to half a year or beyond. Finding a nanny isn't easy either, because nobody meets the standards of a parent. If they aren't you and don't do things the exact way you want, it never seems to be good enough. The biggest problem for many parents is childcare is expensive as well. It is a tough pill to swallow when you already don't want to be away from them, and then paying someone to do what you wish you could is hard. What is the best option to go, and what makes it so tough to find good childcare?

Having a Nanny in the Magic Valley

Having a nanny or babysitter is a great option, but it comes at a cost. Typically nannies are more expensive than daycare, and you are trusting someone in your home that you may not be familiar with. If a nanny is asking for a specific amount and it is around what you make or only a couple of dollars less per hour, it may not be worth it, since you are transferring your check to them and seeing no profit. It is easier for a nanny to be lazy, as once the kids are napping or if they are playing they can be on their phone, napping themselves, or perhaps working on other things not related to your children. The important part is that the children are safe, but nannies can come with some baggage. 

Daycare in the Magic Valley

Daycares can be great. You have professionals watch your children, they get to play with other kids, and you know where they are at all times. The problem is that your child can be neglected if there are too many kids for one teacher to handle, they are open to more illnesses getting passed around, and daycare can be costly. Every parent has heard horror stories of what can go wrong at daycare, and while these things do occur, if it is your only option, what else are you to do? 

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It is tough to find the perfect scenario at times, but eventually, you will find what works best for you and your family. Having a family member or a family friend is the best option, and typically will come at a discount or no cost, but if you don't have friends or family around, things can be more difficult. Make sure to do your research before settling on a daycare or a nanny, and remember that your children are the most important ones in making this decision. Sometimes a little extra money might be worth it to find the perfect childcare for you.