Hi, I'm a soon-to-be first-time mommy and trying to plan ahead for after my baby is born (EDD 3/25/11). I will have to return to work immediately following my 6-week maternity leave as both my husband and I have to work in order to pay bills. I work from 8am-5pm weekdays and my husband works evenings starting at 3pm. Our dilemma is finding a trustworthy caregiver for our infant in the few hours between when he has to leave for work (usually around 2:30pm) and when I return from work (usually around 5:15pm). We are hoping that some friends/family members will be able to help, but we know that even if they can help that it won't be 5 days a week.

Here are my main questions:

Does anyone have any suggestions/recommendations regarding possible child care for a few hours per day in between our work schedules?

What is the "going rate" per hour for such care?

What are some things I should look for in a qualified caregiver? Also, we will require that the caregiver be knowledgeable in infant CPR as well as provide references that show they are capable of taking care of a newborn.

For anyone out there reading this that offers such childcare, please note that we are located in Novato (DeLong exit) and are hoping to find someone willing to go to our home. However, we are definitely open to dropping off/picking up the baby at another location if that turns out to be the best option.

Thank you!!

Jessica