When it comes to finding the right child care for your family, it can be a daunting task. Overnight child care is an option that some parents consider as a last resort. But what exactly is overnight child care and what do you need to know if you're looking for a provider in Baltimore, MD? Overnight child care is a specialized service offered by a dozen women in the Baltimore area. It provides a place for children to sleep, bathe, play and have a snack while their parents work at night.
Caregivers must stay awake all night if there are more than four children in care and must respond to age-appropriate eating schedules, sleep habits, sleep disorders, and sleep routines. In order to become an authorized provider of overnight child care, the Child Care Administration, a state agency overseen by the Maryland Department of Human Resources, requires a criminal background check, a physical exam and a home fire safety inspection. Providers must also take several courses on child care and child health, limit the number of babies served to two and the total number of children to eight, and keep boys and girls in separate rooms that have their own beds or cribs. If you're looking for nighttime child care providers in Baltimore MD, you can call 410-539-2209 in Baltimore City, 410-887-6171 in Baltimore County, and 410-625-1111 in all other counties. René Tyler, 28, who until earlier this month was caring for a 16-month-old baby in her Ashburton townhouse, said that night care can create a bond between children and their caregivers. Although overnight child care is not for everyone, it can be an invaluable resource for parents who need to work late or overnight shifts. If you're considering this option for your family, make sure you do your research and find a provider who meets all of the necessary requirements.
