If you find a quality daycare that provides learning experiences, constant attention and interaction for your children, you've found a wonderful resource.

What are the benefits to daycare?

1. When your child is home with you, you have other things to attend to ~ housework, making dinner, errands and anything else that may come up. When your child is at a quality daycare, the children are the center of attention at all times.

2. Toddlers need interaction with other children their own age. This helps develop social and language skills which might not be developed as quickly at home.

3. It establishes a routine for your toddler. We're not talking about the army here, just a regular place for your child to go with a regular schedule.

4. It helps your toddler develop a sense of independence. He is playing, interacting and learning on his own.

5. It gives you a break ~ which makes you a more effective parent. When you're exhausted...and we know toddlers can be exhausting...you deserve and need a little time to yourself.

Of course, daycare is not the only way to discover the benefits listed above (for example, you can arrange independent playgroups). My point is not to say, send your child to daycare. It's just that you shouldn't feel guilty needing a little hand being an effective parent and providing your child with the stimulation he needs for his development.

courtesy of Malcom's Mom, a web site of parenting tips