Navigating Childcare Choices in Kenya

The joy of watching your child turn five is a universal experience, marked by celebrations, reflections, and hopes for the future. As my son reached this significant milestone, it sparked reflection not just on his development but also on the childcare services I used over the years.

The Better Jobs Brighter Futures report by the World Bank refers to childcare as a service with the primary objective of caring for children while parents are working while ensuring children are safe and have opportunities to learn and develop positive relationships with caregivers and peers. Further, 7 out of 10 children need childcare services. However, 4 out of the 7 do not have access.

In the past five years, I've predominantly relied on the support of live-in nannies and I have used eight live-in nannies, two of whom stayed for over a year. For many Kenyan families, hiring a live-in nanny is a practical solution to childcare needs. In a culture that values close-knit family structures, having a dedicated caregiver living in provides a sense of security and continuity for the child while doubling up as a domestic worker. Most families have nannies who grew up with them and became part of their families. In my case, it allowed for personalized care, a familiar face, and the convenience of having someone readily available to meet my son's needs.

While the live-in nanny offers advantages, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Trusting a caregiver with the well-being of your child requires careful selection, background checks, and ongoing communication. Additionally, the blurred lines between work and personal life can pose challenges in maintaining a healthy work-life balance for both parents and caregivers.

Daycare centers in Kenya are the childcare model that many parents consider. These centers provide structured environments, socialization and opportunities for early learning. However, the availability and accessibility of quality daycare centers can vary, particularly in rural areas and informal settlements where such facilities may be limited.

A model that has thrived in informal settlements is home-based childcare. Born out of necessity, various households have relied on trust to seek childcare services from their neighbors. In a home-based childcare set-up, a woman would have 3-7 children whom she takes care of, none are their own. For less than KES 50 a day, parents are free to engage in economic activities. A final childcare model that I came across while working in Mathare is the night care. This model benefits parents working night shifts. The caregiver provides spaces where the children sleep through the night until their parents pick them up the following morning.

Kenya, like many countries, faces challenges in ensuring widespread access to affordable and quality childcare. While urban areas may have a more diverse range of childcare models, rural communities often lack the infrastructure and resources needed to support comprehensive early childhood development programs. The Kenyan government recognizes the importance of childcare and is slowly taking steps to improve access to childcare services. While there lacks a national policy on childcare, various County Governments have developed Childcare Acts. The most recent one passed was the Kisumu Early Childhood Development and Education Act of 2023 which recognizes home-based childcare.

Non-state actors have pushed for policy and programme reforms within childcare and gradually, we begin to see changes in its recognition and implementation. Community support is also vital in creating a more inclusive childcare landscape. Organizations, community leaders, and parents can collaborate to advocate for policies that prioritize childcare and support families in accessing quality childcare.

The journey through the childcare landscape in Kenya reflects both the strengths and challenges of available options. Live-in nannies have been a cornerstone of support, offering personalized care, daycare centers present a valuable alternative for those seeking structured environments and early learning while home-based childcare provides an affordable childcare service within a home set-up. By continuing to advocate for accessible, inclusive and affordable childcare models, we can contribute to building a nurturing environment for all children, ensuring they thrive as they embark on their educational journeys.