GrandParents as Daily Childcare Providers

daughter and I compromise quite a bit, I've learned to be more flexible and she's learned to follow through and not give in. We put Sarah's well being first, avoiding a power struggle and that allows us both to let the little things go. On the important issues we make sure our actions are consistant, which means Sarah is treated the same way by both of us in 90% of time. There are some exceptions, I give special GRAMMIE treats and things Sarah is allowed to do at GRAMMIE's house only, but nothing to overwhelming. When ever I am not sure of the proper action, or I have to think twice, I ask my daughter's permission and opinion. For more information please read my first article GRAND Parent Wisdom, my personal guide to grandparenting. If you are considering taking on the resposibility of daily childcare for your grandchild, offer the possiblity to your child. Open mindingly discuss all daycare options. Keep your grandchild's future as top priority. Discuss your availability, limitations, and what your daycare would provide. Compare your daycare with a regular daycare center, listing the pros and cons for both.

After careful consideration of all child care options are you the best full time child care provider? If the answer is yes, then set up a daily child care plan, including hours, activities, meals, and provisions. Make sure you have all emergency numbers, parents' work, doctors', poison control, fire, and police. Have a notarized letter from the parents stating what emergency care decissions you have their permission to make. Child proof your home, use safety caps for outlets, safety locks for cabinets and cupboards, lock boxes for prescriptions, matches, lighters, and other dangerous materials. Remove all guns from home. Install safety gates where necessary. Keep entry doors locked, check windows, install safety latches and locks. Do a complete safety check of the house with your grandchild's parent and comply with all local fire codes. A first aid kit is essential, and taking a first aid course including CPR is a plus. Install smoke detectors on every floor and a carbon monoxide detector near sleeping area. Check with your local RED CROSS for other child care classes available. More safety info is available under Child Safety Links on my Welcome page.

Your home may or may not offer the options of seperate sleep or play areas. Do you have an

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