How is it different from a nanny?

In the range of care solutions for your children, people often confuse the difference between a home childcare provider and an at-home nanny. This is completely different method of care for your child: the location, legislation, and even price, everything is different!  

The primary difference: the location of the care

A home childcare providers care for kids at his or her home whereas a nanny  cares for the children at your home or in the home of another family in the case of a shared nanny. 
Care at the home of the childcare provider can be seen as an advantage and a disadvantage: her space is designed to accommodate young children, but it requires parents to bring the children to her home. The nanny, on other the other hand, comes to you and this involves a whole series of benefits: more flexibility, not necessarily need to dress the children in the morning, bathing them the evening beforehand, etc.  

Monique Tamminga of the blog She's A Valley Mom writes about her experiences with a nanny, daycare centre and home daycare all within a short period. Ultimately it seems home daycare ended up being the best option for her family although it wasn't an easy decision to come to!

Be careful with your words: childcare providers don't always like the term "nanny"

Childcare providers are very attached to the official designation of their profession. We should use the term "childcare provider" or "home daycare provider" with the same strictness as we use the term "doctor!" Just note that some childcare providers really prefer that you don't call him or her a "nanny".

The community

With in-home daycare, your child will also be introduced to the community. He or she will be kept with other children whose number is limited (according to the province in which you reside).

This is a good way for him or her to learn about life in society! This is not the case for a nanny that would keep your baby alone at home, even if it is true that it is also possible to share a nanny with another family. Your child will also, in this case, have the opportunity to have the company of other children.

The price range

There is no set price for private in-home daycare. You must agree on the price at the onset of the care. Note that the childcare provider will be responsible for not only feeding your child but also entertaining him or her (craft supplies, books, toys, etc.) as well as any other maintenance that may be necessary; think diapers, toilet paper, handsoap and so on.