Organize a Child Care Co-Op

While parenting can be one of the most rewarding experiences in an adult's life, sometimes you just need a break. Taking care of children 24/7 is an exhausting job, and if you don't give yourself a mental reprieve every once in a while, you're going to burn out and become depressed. All adults need some time to themselves as well as opportunities to visit with friends and family members without the children tagging along. However, child care can be ridiculously expensive, even for a few hours of baby-sitting once a week. That is why you should organize a child care co-op in your neighborhood.

Organize a Child Care Co-Op: What It Is
A child care co-op is an informal organization made up of parents in a community which allows each of the members to achieve some time to themselves. Most co-ops consist of stay-at-home Mom's, though fathers and working parents are likewise invited. The system works because no money is exchanged and each parent retains equal benefits. A members' list is compiled of all interested parents, and they take turns watching each other's children while the other parent(s) get a little time away. 

Organize a Child Care Co-Op: Why It Works
As mentioned above, child care co-ops don't cost any money because none of the parents ever have to pay for child care. Instead, they trade the exact same service, which leaves all the members on equal footing. It usually works best in neighborhoods and small communities where everyone lives within a few blocks of everyone else, though small towns and college towns can also make it work. 

Organize a Child Care Co-Op: Where to Start
Begin organizing the co-op by contacting all of your neighbors. Find out who has children, how many children they have, and the ages, and record that information on a computer disk or in longhand. Ask if each of your neighbors would be interested in a child care co-op, and if so, the days and hours when they are most often available. Collect information about work schedules, hobbies and other engagements which would prevent them from participating on certain days or at certain times.