“It’s a parent’s responsibility!”

Backup care may be needed whenever your regular childcare arrangements are not available. Backup care can be used when your child is ill, when providers resign, or go out of business, when schools are closed, or any situation in which your regular childcare arrangements fall through.

Work Considerations

For two parent families, the best place to begin is to talk your spouse or partner ahead of time about your individual work schedules. Decide who can stay home and when. Be sure you know your time-off options at work so you will be ready when your child is under the weather or an emergency arises.

Be sure you know all the policies at your job regarding time off, sick time and flexibility in your hours at work. You may want to speak with your manager to arrange how your work will be done during your absence.

Ask your employer about backup care. More and more businesses are realizing that by helping employees when childcare arrangements break down or children are ill, they reduce unscheduled absences and create savings for the company. Some employers subsidize a portion of the cost of backup care for their employees. Sometimes companies sponsor arrangements by setting aside backup childcare slots in the community, having a program at the worksite, or providing a service to come into an employee’s home.

Check It Out

If you haven’t already asked, now is the time to find out how your regular provider can help. Ask about policies for ill children, scheduled closed days, and substitute care. Discuss with your caregiver your need for as much notice as possible and whether she has any friends who might be able to help you in a pinch.

“Prior planning can prevent an unnecessary situation”

Whether you’re going to use a drop-in center or temporary caregivers, it’s a good idea to call and schedule a visit. Both you and your child will feel more comfortable on the day you need care if you’ve made the time to visit beforehand. Many programs are open early in the morning and early evening, which may be more convenient times for you to visit.

Visit as many potential caregivers as possible. Let your child explore as you ask questions to determine whether you’re comfortable with the quality of care. Just as you searched for regular childcare, you will be looking for a safe, healthy, and comfortable place to leave your child.

Your Child Is Ill

Children inevitably get sick and for working parents these illnesses can cause great difficulty. It can be tough to judge if your child is too ill to attend your regular childcare program. Ask yourself if your child can participate comfortably and whether his needs will not interfere with the care of the other children. Be familiar with your childcare program’s policies on illness. Do not pressure your caregivers to take your sick child, as it is their responsibility to maintain a healthy environment for all the children enrolled.

“Some family childcare providers may provide temporary care. Some daycare provider may have a list or names for you to use as back up providers. If your child is very sick you will want to be with your child.
Your childcare provider has an emergency… the school boiler just burst… your child is mildly ill. Whatever the reason, you have to work and have a need for backup care.”

When Would I Need Backup Care?

When your child is ill, Weather Alert or has a sudden emergency. Your child’s school or center is closed for a holiday, vacation, inclement weather or emergency.

Please consider these things as you and your provider plan for a back up. Share your experiences with these situations.