To find the correct a childcare or preschool for your child is very important. The best time to look for childcare is 6-8 months before you need it. Some of the facilities have a long waiting list. It is better to make you choices in advance.
First of all you have to identify your priorities. What are the most important factors? Where would you like the childcare/preschool to be located: in a recreational area, a private home or a special designated building? How far do you want to walk or drive? Which educational program do you prefer? Are hot lunches important for you? What hours of operation are suitable for your family?
After you are clear on your research: Internet, friends, newspapers, magazines, etc. Pick a few of the most preferable choices and schedule the appointment. I would highly recommend bringing your child with you for the appointment. By your child’s behavior and interaction with the staff and other children you will see if it is the good fit. It is the best test you can do!
Talk to the director and ask as many questions as you can. Do not forget your child is going to spend time in this facility. Your child has to feel comfortable.
Check references about the facility you like and make a choice.
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We all want to find the right childcare for our children. The childcare not only has to feet your child personality but also your budget. Childcare services are expensive. Therefore, you want to make sure you’re making the best investment. Before figuring out your budget, take some time to learn about different program which may help you to pay for childcare.
· State Child Care Subsidy - You may be eligible for state-funded subsidy for childcare. There are programs in every state. However the rules are very depends on the state. Typically, childcare subsidies are available for families who earn low income. Some state public schools offer free or low-cost Pre-K programs for 3- and 4-year-old children for all income families .
· Local Programs - United Way or other community organization may provides child care scholarships or assistance
· Employer/College Assistance - Ask if your employer provides scholarships, discounts to certain programs, or on-site child care at a reduced rate. If you are a student, you may find similar incentives on-campus or through your university.
· Head Start/Early Head Start - Head Start and Early Head Start are federally and sometimes state-funded programs. Families who use Head Start must meet federal poverty guidelines. Head Start is free and may be either full or part-day. Head Start’s goal is to help children meet health and school readiness guidelines.
· Tax Credits:
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit - If you qualify for the EITC, you may be able to lower your taxes and possibly get money back.
Federal Child Tax Credit - Parents with children under age 17 may be eligible for the Child Tax Credit. You may receive money for each child for this credit. Income limits for the Child Tax Credit are much higher than the EITC limits.
Federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit - If you have a child under the age of 13, and you owe federal taxes, this credit may help you cover a portion of these taxes.
State Earned Income Tax Credit - Many states offer their own Earned Income or Child Tax credit. These credits are similar to the federal EITC.
Dependent Care Assistance Programs - Some employers may offer Dependent Care Assistance programs. These programs allow you to have money (up to $5,000 a year) taken out of your paycheck for child care, tax-free. These programs help lower the taxes you pay during the year.
Military Child Care Assistance - Through a partnership with the Department of Defense, NACCRRA offers military families childcare assistance. This partnership allows active duty and/or deployed service members childcare fees if they are unable to access childcare on a military base.
So as you see there are some ways to save money on childcare. Good Luck!
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