No, You Don't Need a Before-School Babysitter

The newest parenting trend is hiring a nanny to care for your kids before they leave for school. At least that's what the companies selling childcare want us to believe.

Billed the latest hack, to cut down on "morning mayhem," experts say they're seeing more interest in before-school babysitters who handle a variety of tasks to prepare kids for the day. “This type of care is a game-changer, allowing parents to focus on their morning routines without the added stress of getting the kids dressed, fed, and ready for school,” said Sean Lacey, General Manager of Child Care for Care.com, in an interview with Parents. The babysitters tackle everything from making beds to checking homework, and charge just under $20 an hour on average. I wouldn't call that lunch money.

Sorting out before and after-school care is not a new dilemma for parents, especially those with work schedules that interfere with school pick-up and drop-off. But it's common for school districts, or neighboring businesses, to offer programs that cover these gaps for a bit less than it would cost to hire a caregiver.

Of course, there will always be exceptions, especially for families with specialized needs. Though the idea of hiring someone to get kids ready for school, aside from being an obvious capitalist grab, raises questions about our broader attitudes on the demands of parenting and the chaos of raising children.

Chaos is generally viewed negatively, but in some instances it can be a ladder—but not necessarily in the way Game of Thrones fans might define it. Essentially it can be an opportunity to grow in areas we may be overlooking. When it comes to school, that could mean anything from trying a new routine to helping kids develop a new skill. The rhythm of the mornings can also be a time to connect and keep us tuned into our kids' social and emotional needs.

Sure, chaos will always be, well, chaotic. But when it comes to kids, it won't last forever and it can serve a purpose. Though, I suppose "Mornings Are Hard, But This Too Shall Pass," is an idea that’s a bit less marketable.