For most work-at-home moms considering whether or not they need child care, the answer is “yes.” But how much and what kind child care provider you need varies depending on factors such as:
- Type of employment
- Economic situation
- Hours
- Number and ages of children
- Ability to deal with distractions
- Whether you work both from home and from the office
How Much Child Care Do You Need?
Full Time Child Care
Especially good for: Full-time, employed telecommuters, moms who work in an office most of the time and occasionally work at home
Benefits: Flexibility to travel or leave the house, fewer distractions, children may receive more one-on-one attention, increased productivity at work
Drawbacks: Cost, less time with children
Tell Your Story: Why I Need Full-Time Child Care
Part Time Child Care
Especially good for: Part-time telecommuters, home business owners and independent contractors; full-time work at home moms with flexible hours
Benefits: Less expensive than full-time child care, more time with children
Drawbacks: Less flexibility, possibly more distractions, could require night and weekend work
Tell Your Story: My Part-Time Child Care Plan
No Child Care
Especially good for: Part-time telecommuters, home business owners and independent contractors with flexible hours; those starting businesses that are not yet generating significant income
Benefits: Significant cost saving, more time with children
Drawbacks: More distractions, increased risk of being unable to complete work obligations
Tell Your Story: How I Work From Home With No Child Care
