Becoming Crunchy

Image by Tony Trần via Flickr

So this morning as I was walking along, thinking about how I have to go back to work in less than 3 months , I was daydreaming about opening a home daycare.

I actually strongly considered the possibility (mainly so I could stay home with the Bean) but unfortunately when most people see giant rottweiler + small child, they don’t think, “Aww, how sweet.”

In fact, it’s usually more along the lines of, “Aren’t you afraid that dog is going to maul your child?”

Luther, of course, is highly saddened by these thoughts…as nobody seems to like him sometimes. He knows we love him though! And he is amazing with the Bean…

Anyway, I’m getting off track.

So when I imagine my likely never to exist home daycare, I think about what I would want from the perfect daycare. Thus, the following would be my ad:

AP/Natural Home Daycare

Home daycare accepting children. We support an attachment, natural parenting philosophy (babywearing, breastfeeding, co-sleeping, etc) and will carry this over in our care of your children as much as we can.

We offer the following:

• We are happy to wear babies and small children whenever possible! If it becomes necessary, we’ll set up an alternating system for each child to get that closeness during the day.
• We will provide breakfast, lunch and snacks – all organic, nothing processed. As much as possible will be purchased locally.
• We are happy to support co-sleeping if children wish to nap together; CIO will not be practiced.
• Plastic dishes and utensils will be non-existent, plastic toys will be limited; we strive to make an effort towards sustainability and will encourage it in your children.
• There will be no TV – but there will be a lot of interaction and play.
• We will take the children outdoors as much as possible - giving them opportunities to help in the garden and dig in the dirt in summer months, along with snowy adventures during the wintertime.
• Baby Led Solids will be supported.
• Cloth Diapering will be supported.
• Both vaccination and non/delayed vaccination will be supported.
• Gentle discipline will be supported.
• As much as possible, we will attempt to meet the needs of your individual child alone and within the group.

We don’t use anti-bacterial soap, but both big hands and little hands will be washed often. We only use all-natural cleaners in our home. We don’t mind kids getting dirty.

Yes, our dog is large, and our cat is not shy – but they are both very gentle with children. Children will never be left alone with pets. They may even be allowed to bring their own pet for a visit every once in awhile! Children will learn some care and respect for animals.

Homeschooled/Unschooled children also accepted – if you wish to provide the curriculum/lesson ideas, we are happy to give the guidance they need.

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What do you think? Would you send your kids to me?

Alas, it’s unlikely to happen – though I am very fortunate to have in-laws who are just dying to take over Bean’s care – if only I can get them to refrain from giving her junk food!

Does this sound like an ideal daycare to you? What else would you add?

PS: This is mainly silliness and me sharing stuff I like to think about – I in no way judge anyone (parents or daycare providers) for allowing TV, sugar, etc. – I trust that you are caring for your children in the best way for them and that you know what you’re doing. So don’t get offended! ;D

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