It Takes a Village

Did you know that May 7th is Daycare Provider Appreciation Day? Although, as hard as they work, every day should be. I know I couldn't live without our daycare. To show my appreciation I wanted to share this appreciation day with all of you so you can share your appreciation for your own daycare providers. 

Daycare Provider Appreciation Day was established in 1996 by a group of volunteers in New Jersey that saw the need to recognize the tireless efforts of providers who care for children of working parents. It is purposely and appropriately celebrated the Friday before Mother's Day each year. 

I have a 3 year old son and an 11 month old daughter. My husband works 50-60 hours a week. I also work full time and, with Claire, run our business. We needed someone to help us take care of our children when we couldn't be there. We needed someone who we could trust, where they would be safe, and could help nurture their development. We found ours in Little Cubs Daycare in our hometown. The providers there are amazing and we couldn't ask for better! 

We also rely on our parents. Our children have amazing grandparents. Mike, my husband's parents take the kids every other week for 2 nights. The kids love visiting the farm. Declan goes on adventures with Grandpa and Devin hangs out with Grandma. 

My parents take the kids overnight for at least a couple nights on the opposite weeks of Mike's parents. Sometimes they'll call or want to keep them longer to take them somewhere or want to keep them over the weekend to go camping in the summer. The kids love it there. Declan gets to jump on the trampoline and ride his bike with his cousins. There are always other kids at my parents house so they have non-stop entertainment. My sister's and their husbands are great about coming over to visit the kids when they are at my parents, or wanting to keep them overnight just to see them a little longer. My sister, Stacy, recently hosted a movie night with all of the nieces and nephews. She had one full house but everyone had a great time. 

So how do you show your appreciation to the village helping you raise your children? Gift bags of survival gear? Flowers and candy? gift cards? Dinner on you? These are all great ideas.

Still need help with some other ideas? Enchanted 3 Boutique wants to help. You can find 12 delicious scents in our Countryside Skincare line to give because after a long day of taking care of other people's children these providers need some pampering. You can also find beautiful signs in our Wood Home Décor collection to inspire and encourage them to make it to the end of the day.  Hope you find something that they will love. 

I would tell you what I'm going to do, but I don't want to give away the surprise in case my village reads the blog...lol! I would love to hear your ideas? How will you show appreciation to your village? Comment below to tell us your stories and how much you appreciate everyone that helps you raise your munchkins. Happy Daycare Provider Appreciation Day!