Tag Archives: childcare

Juggling Kids and Work

Although many businesses have returned to the office after working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic,, it can still be tough to juggle your family life with your career. There’s finding childcare when you can’t be home, allocating time to make it to sports games and extracurricular events, and deciding if part-time or full-time is right for you. It’s important to note that there are no wrong answers here: what’s right for you and your family is unique to you. But here are a few options to consider! (more…)

How to Vet Child Care Centers

When you have a family, finding a job isn’t as easy as choosing whatever employer offers you the most cash. You have to take into account barriers to employment such as transportation and the always-important proximity to child care.

Once you’ve made a list of all the nearby child care providers (preferably half a year before you need child care, since the best ones reach capacity quickly), what’s next? How can you be sure your child is well taken care of? Check off these qualities.

They Have an Up-To-Date License and Minimal Infractions

Have you ever seen a TV commercial with a talking animal telling you to check out a used car’s history report before buying? Child care center licenses are kind of like that.

An up-to-date license doesn’t mean a facility is perfect, but it does tell you that certain baseline requirements have been met. If your state requires licenses for child care facilities, that means they are at least meeting base levels of safety and quality concerns. Although you still need to do your own research, a facility that doesn’t have any type of license is one to stay away from.

Check online for a child care database. Depending on where you live, this resource might show not only whether a particular location is licensed, but also how many infractions they have had. While you might be able to overlook a paperwork infraction, anything involving chemicals or not having a thermometer in the freezer should raise red flags.

There’s Plenty to Do

When you first visit the child care facility, look at what the kids are doing. Are they all sitting around watching TV? That’s not a great sign.

As BabyCenter.com notes, “The best daycares have structured schedules that include plenty of time for physical activity, quiet time, group programs, individual activities, meals, snacks, and free time.”

You want your kid to have a well-balanced experience. That means healthy meals, exercise, time for imaginative play, etc. If you’re not sure about their curriculum, ask!

They’re Qualified and Agree with Your Parenting Philosophy

Great child care centers cost more than other child care options (such as babysitters and friends or family) because they typically have well-trained employees. As BabyCenter.com notes, “Daycare center employees should be educated, with at least two years of college, a background in early childhood development (though many states don’t require this), and CPR and other emergency training.”

But education isn’t everything. Watch how the daycare providers interact with the children when  you visit. Are they kind and peppy or tired and slow? Do they know the children by name at first glance? You want a staff that has high energy levels to keep up with your little one.

You also must make sure the staff agrees with your parenting style. What kind of feeding schedule do they adhere to? How are naps handled? Is their discipline style something you can work with? Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good child care provider isn’t going to think of you as an overconcerned parent—they know how important these questions are.

They Work With Your Schedule

One of the hidden costs of child care is late pickup fees. When does the child care facility close? Will you be able to get there in time after work? Some facilities charge higher fees after a certain time, given that the staff must stay late in order to watch over kids. Choose a facility that lines up with your own schedule, or work out a plan with family members to pick up your child.

Once you find a child care provider that you’re comfortable with, working away from you children becomes much easier. You know that they’re in good hands, and you have peace of mind to feel fulfilled at work.

Have any more questions about vetting child care providers? Let us know in the comments section below!

 

 

Who’s Hiring this Summer

Summer_Hiring_April2014Summertime is just around the corner, and every year many people take on summer jobs to earn some extra cash. Working a summer job can expand more than just your pocket book – it can also benefit your future! Summer jobs allow people the opportunity to explore a career path, gain experience, and find full-time work.  So, if you’re looking for work this summer, check out this good news!

Positive Outlook
According to the annual summer jobs survey by Snagajob, this summer’s hiring trend looks the brightest it’s been in a while. The number of hiring managers planning to hire more seasonal staff in 2014 is up 10% from the summer of 2013, and wages are at their highest level in six years. Additionally, the number of hiring managers who don’t plan to hire help this summer is down 14% compared to last year at this time.

Even more positive news: Snagajob also shares that hiring managers expect 10% fewer workers to return this summer compared to the summer of 2013, creating more job openings and making 2014 one of the best years for job seekers to get their foot in the door. As in years past, a 54 percent majority believe the biggest competition for summer jobs will be among high school and college students.

Seasonal Jobs
Many cities have local recreational parks and departments that are responsible for local pools, golf courses, and other activities. To find more information on jobs in your community, check out your local parks and recreation website. Another great summer job would be working at a camp, but if you’re not much of an outdoor person, look into working at your local YMCA. Since many children are out of school in the summer, child care is another job option.
So, if you’re out of school, between employment, or just looking to make some extra cash, make sure to check out these summer job opportunities in your community.

Outdoor:

  • Lifeguards
  • Park concession, such as selling snacks or accessories
  • Golf course attendants and golf cart drivers
  • Sports umpires and referees
  • Park maintenance and security
  • Lawn maintenance

Indoor:

  • Daytime camp counselor
  • Tutor
  • Childcare giver
  • Class instructor, such as arts and crafts or sports
  • Summer school assistant

Getting a summer job can be a great way to build your resume, earn income, and even make friends while having fun in the sun. The possibilities of summertime employment are growing, so find the job that’s right for you.

Express Can Help
Whether you’re starting a new career, re-entering the workforce, or supplementing your income, Express has the resources to match you with a job that fits your desires and abilities. To search for an Express office near you, visit ExpressPros.com.

What are your plans for summertime employment? Share with us in the comment section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.