Very thought provoking Wah. This is seldom debated here in the states because of the reality that so many families have 2 working parents and no option other than daycare. It strikes at the parent's guilt.
I stayed at home with my children for 14 years. My youngest was 5 and entering school when I began working part time. We struggled financially for many years to enable me to stay at home with our sons. It was difficult, rewarding, boring. They have never been in day care, nor have they been neglected. My oldest is almost 19, and my youngest is now 11. Time will tell if it was a good choice for our family. They are all good kids tho.. kind to others, not involved in gangs or crime, and loving.
I do believe it's better for children to be raised by a LOVING adult, with as few other children around as is feasible. The larger the day care, the larger the chance for neglect or for the child's needs to be missed. If a child is left with someone who truly loves them, then I believe they will be fine. I have several friends who run day care from their homes. Some are very good, some are not. It matters.
For abused children, day care can be a lifesaver... they get out of the abusive situation for awhile, and they learn how 'normal' people behave with one another.
However, I read a study recently that stated children who have been in day care settings daily for most of their young lives, are more agressive, and are more attached to their peers than to adults. I wish I could recall where I saw that... Sorry Wah. Not much help eh?
It's a difficult issue. The need for day care is there. And yet, do we really know what it's doing to our children? Deep questions.
I'm interested in seeing the other questions you've been asked Wah!
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Sometimes I think I
understand everything,
then I regain consciousness.
Happy Member of Fast Fourward.