Summer Childcare Options

Summer brings the need for full-time  childcare options, even for school-aged kids, unlike the school year. Cost, activities, duration, and fun are all factors of great Summer childcare options.

I’m facing the same challenge lots of working mothers are facing: what will I do for Summer childcare during the 12 weeks they are out of school?

Whether you need summer childcare to cover the times when your child would have been in school or are looking to provide enrichment in math, science, sports, or just plain organized fun…

Childcare, especially full-time childcare, is expensive. I would be paying about 25% of my salary for EACH child to be cared for while I work.

I’m working especially hard to create a work arrangement to leave the office before the school day ends, as I transition into working fully from home.

Summer Childcare Options for Working Moms

Some of these options will depend on your children’s ages.

1. Daycare – Working moms CAN find affordable, full-time summer childcare.  Last summer, I shared four Easy Ways to Save On Summer Childcare. With these tips in mind, you will know exactly where to search and what to look for. I’ve also told you Everything You Need to Know About Childcare — But are Afraid to Ask.

2. Camp – For fun enrichment during the day, these are the Top Three Things About Choosing a Summer Camp for Teens. And, if you are comfortable with your child staying away overnight, don’t miss the Top Five Things to Consider In a Sleepaway Camp. There are some tips in my post Easy Ways to Save On Summer Childcare that will help with younger kids, too.

3. Family – Grandma, Grandpa, or another family member may be more than willing to spend some one-on-one time with your child. We are so fortunate to live near my hometown and to be surrounded by family that have always been willing to help us out over the last 13 years.

4. Stay at home – If your child is mature enough and meets the age guidelines of your state, you may want to consider having him or her stay at home alone. During my back to school series, I gave many Tips for Keeping Kids Safe Until You Get Home. Don’t miss these tips in my post 0n Making a Summer Routine so your kiddos don’t veg on the couch all summer long.

5. Work from home – Depending on your job flexibility, explore a complete or partial work from home schedule with your employer. Not only will this allow you to be home with your kids, but you will save commuting time and costs.

I’m a working mom with a six-year-old and thirteen-year-old. By the end of next, school will be out for both kids. My daughter will be spending most of the summer with her grandmother. My son will be spending some time at home, grandma’s, camp, or participating in other fun things to do in the summer.

Further Resources for Summer Childcare Options:

• Easy Ways to Save On Summer Childcare
• Everything You Need to Know About Childcare — But are Afraid to Ask
• Top Five Things to Consider In a Sleepaway Camp
• Top Three Things About Choosing a Summer Camp for Teens

More Fun Things to Do in the Summer:

• My Favorite Ways to Get Free or Cheap Books
• Five Ways Your Kids Can Enjoy Movies on the Cheap
• Saving Money at the State Fair
• Making a Summer Routine
• How Working Moms Can Think Creatively About Summer Vacation

Which Summer childcare option works best for your family?

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