You’re already juggling work, daycare, diaper changes, groceries, dinner, cleaning and all the rest. And on top of it all you’ve just had a major logistical problem dropped into your hands: your little one’s early childhood educator is going on vacation soon. So, who’s going to take care of your child?
Daycare replacement staff
If your child attends adaycare, the centre should have replacement personnel to fill in for educators who go on vacation. You can sleep soundly because your child will get the same quality of service in the same environment. On the other hand, you should prepare your little one to deal with the absence of a favourite educator, especially if more than one substitute may be filling in during the interim.
Super Grandparents to the rescue
In a home daycare, the caregiver may offer to find a substitute to take over during her absence. This may also be the case if she has a one-time appointment outside the home. However, it may not be possible for her to find a full-time replacement for an extended absence, which leaves you still looking for alternate arrangements.
Perhaps this is the time to ask your parents to step in, if they live close by. A little holiday at Grandma and Grandpa's could do everybody a bit of good. Or, is there a family friend who could look after your little loved one at their home, or at yours? If you’re up for the challenge, you could also set up a co-op type arrangement with the other parents, wherein you each take a turn staying home for a day to host the daycare gang.
Matching vacations
In the best of worlds, your caregiver gives you enough notice to let you book your own vacation to match hers. There are no gaps and your little one doesn’t have to deal with new faces. However, your caregiver may not have been planning to take a leave of absence. And what to do if you and your caregiver are able to plan matching vacations, but not your spouse? Back to the drawing board.
Call the weekend babysitter
If your early childhood educator is taking a vacation at an inconvenient time, and no friends or family members are available to step in and take over, perhaps the babysitter who pampers your little sweetie when you go out on the weekends will be free. If it’s spring break, the December holidays or summer vacation, a young and vibrant babysitter could just become your new best friend — and your child’s too.
