Nannies: something needed? Or should parents who choose to have children also rear them?

[pnwmom]

65. Why should you call it a luxury for them to choose the less expensive option for multiple children?

And why should good daycare be considered a luxury?

Why don't you call it a "luxury" if a family can afford to have a parent stay home full time, without worrying about what happens to the career of that person?

https://www.care.com/a/child-care-choices-au-pair-daycare-or-nanny-1110070340

DAY CARE

Consider cost factors and realize they can vary according to where you live. Recent survey findings from a National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies found the average annual cost of full-time care for an infant in a center in 2010 ranged from $4,650 in Mississippi to $18,200 in the District of Columbia. The average annual cost for full-time care for a 4-year-old in a center ranged from $3,900 in Mississippi to $14,050 in the District of Columbia.

Nanny

Cost: You should pay a nanny at least minimum wage. Many nannies will charge an hourly wage that is significantly higher than this. The cost will depnd on where you live, the number of hours, number/age of kids and previous experience. Use our pay scale calculator to determine the going rate in your area. Most states don't regulate nannies in your home, so it's important to do your own background check and to follow up and check references.

Who they're best for: Often this is more cost-efficient for families with two or more children (or a pet) and especially convenient for parents who would benefit from a clean house, a walked-dog and well-fed kids when they get home from work. Families with erratic work schedules who can't always make a 5:30 pick-up greatly benefit from having a nanny they can call when a meeting runs late.
If you have an infant or a very young child, you may find a nanny to be your best option, as care is provided in your home and the baby is getting the one-on-one attention you would give if you were home.