How to Get Inexpensive Part Time Child Care

Part-time child care can be next to impossible to find. Few daycare centers can afford to staff the center without a contract from parents who will bring their children full-time. While many families try flexible scheduling to get more time with their children, the possibilities for those parents to find inexpensive part-time child care are small.

Instructions

1. Check with your relatives. Though your mother may not want to watch your child 40 hours a week, she may be willing to be with him 20 hours a week while you work part-time. Relatives make great free or inexpensive child care, and it gives you the benefit of knowing the person well.

2. Ask a local mom to switch with you. More moms are looking for inexpensive part-time childcare options, and few are finding it. Hook up with local moms groups and mention to others you know. You may find another mom who needs part-time care, and the two of you can alternate watching all of the children.

3. Consider a nannyshare program. Becoming more popular, these programs are available for families with creative childcare needs. Two or more families go in together and pay the full-time salary of a nanny. Done through an agency, the families pay a fee, and all legalities are covered through the agency. The nanny goes to each house whenever needed. She works full-time, and the families all get part-time help.

4. Hire a college student. College students have odd schedules, which can make traditional jobs tough for them. They also want work that they consider fun and will allow them flexibility. If you can find someone who is dependable, this option may work for you.

5. Get a mother's helper. Should you need short-term help, less than two hours at a stretch, or help if you work from home, a local teen or even pre-teen can be a good choice. Though your hours will be limited, particularly during the academic year, you can hire a mother's helper, typically for much less than another babysitter.