Many parents turn to 24-hour child care centers as a way to accommodate their busy schedule and place their child in a safe environment. A child care center that is available around the clock can easily take in children who need to be watched at night or need child care for more than a typical eight-hour period. Understanding the basic fundamentals of 24-hour child care will help you decide if it is right for your child and your situation.
Reasons For Care
Child care provides a structured setting for children generally between the ages of a few weeks to 12 years old. Parents who work after 6 p.m. or need child care for several hours or days often turn to 24-hour care. Some parents also use around-the-clock care in between parenting time when both parents are out of town and unable to care for the child. Single parents also use this type of care if they have a work schedule that needs them overnight for one or more days.
Staff
The staff for around-the-clock care should consist of someone who is trained and has a background of caring for children of all ages and care needs. The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care at the University of Colorado says that first aid training, rescue breathing and first aid for choking or an equivalent should be required of staff caring for children. Some 24-hour staff are nurses who are licensed and equipped to handle children with special physical and emotional needs.
Services
Healthy Kids suggests that good health and proper safety practices are key with all child care and educational settings for kids. Twenty four-hour care centers should meet those needs by accommodating exactly what your child is seeking with care. In-home around-the-clock care is similar to nanny care where they will shop, transport children to and from school and perform light housekeeping. Some around-the-clock child care centers provide teaching tools for children, such as art, story time and homework assistance based on the child's need and educational level.
Accommodations
Accommodations are important with 24-hour care. The child should have a clean and safe place to sleep, eat and play throughout their stay. Special dietary requirements should be met if the child needs to eat certain foods or eat at a certain time. Handicap accessible areas should also be made available if the caregiver is caring for handicapped children. Although Pacer Center says that not all child care centers have to accommodate handicapped individuals---such as churches---it says ramps, wide doorways and bathroom accommodation needs should be considered.
Activities
Activities are important for a 24-hour child care facility. The outdoor area should be fenced and provide safe playground equipment for kids. Games, group reading sessions and arts and crafts are also recommended for a nurturing environment. Field trips might also be an activity as long as the trip is educational, safe and fun for each age group.
