It is really a scary thought entrusting someone else with the well-being of your child!
We had a bad experience with a daycare and our son coming home with bruises and scratches that were obviously being inflicted by someone else. He was only 18 months old at the time and could not tell us who was hurting him. We spoke with the provider on a number of occasions and she claimed not to know anything. Even if it was not actually her hurting our son, the fact was that it was happening while under her roof and she should have recognized something was going on. We finally pulled him out of her care and filed a complaint with the state. It turns out she was violating many rules and regulations and was eventually shut down, thank goodness!!!
We did strike gold with the next provider. She runs a private in-home daycare and is licensed through our state. There are other kids there so my son is getting the socialization he needs in a stable, structured, and nurturing environment. I don't know what we would do without her!
I don't know if your state has licensing requirements, but if they do, you can always check to see if a particular daycare or provider has had complaints or has ever been investigated. Also, reputation is a big factor. I agree with iliabags--the church daycares in our area have great reputations; however, many of them have waiting lists to get in.
I really do feel for you and your situation! I will be having some major surgery in two weeks and will not be able to lift for six weeks afterward. I have spoken with some friends who will help me out when my son isn't in daycare. I hope you are able to find a solution that works for you! Best of luck!
