Your baby doesn’t need only to be changed and fed: he needs the kind of loving attention that you would give him yourself if he is to learn to interact and become a sociable child.
Baby-sitters These care for your child during the day in your home or theirs. They may care for more than one child. Depending on local regulations, they may or may not be licensed by a public agency.
Nanny or mother’s helper You can find one through agencies, by advertising locally, or in a newspaper or magazine. Although this kind of help can be expensive, you might consider sharing a nanny with another family. Parents’ groups may be able to put you in touch with other mothers interested in sharing a nanny.
Day-care centers Run privately or by local authorities, these often have long waiting lists and usually only a small number of places for babies. You may get priority if you are a single parent.
Day-care centers (work-places) Perhaps you are very lucky and have enlightened employers who it possible to take your baby to work with you. This means you can continue breastfeeding and have your baby close by all day. If there is a day-care center at your workplace, make sure you reserve a space before your baby is born.
