quote:

Originally posted by Sunflower Central:
[qb] Sue,
Yes,to say it in sociology terms, there is more variation within the group of in home group care vs. standardized commerical care. Just to say, with home care, there is a wider range of care. But on the high end, the care is considered to be better based on long range studies that show how well children are adjusted to adult responsibilities. But if you are looking at studies that judge based on accademic achievements, or based on social/peer adjustments, then the results are different. There is a standardized level of care you can expect from a commerical day care. Looking for in home care, you have to be alot more vigiliant, and know what you are looking for. Commerical care, you don't have to investigate it so rigerously.

The arguments can go on and on as more articles are found to support one side or the other. But as you said, Sue, it's what works for the parent, the kids.

I know for me, in home care works for my family. It gives my children the religious imput, and social activities that I support and desire. Other parents like commerical day cares because of certain programs they have, food, education, after school activities.

How do we judge the success? What matters to each of us?

And than how do we afford what we want? The original question, how do single parents work and pay for day care, and can it be prohibitive. The answer, YES!

Possible solutions would be more work from home options, and telecommutes. But those have to be done by employers, not by the government. Really good employers even offer onsite daycare for their employees. Problem is, most of us single parents that could really use that don't have the qualifications to be able to work for companies like that.

A friend of mine was commenting. She stated, the rich don't have to spend as much money to get what the rest of us get. They go on vacation and stay at their aunt's condo in Maui, use their brother's vacation house in Aruba, and fly on their best friend's private jet. It's true. Those who are well off work for companies that have onsite cafeterias, allow you to save money for day care, and give your family free season passes to Six Flags. [/qb]