Finding the right child care is to suit you, your child and your situation can sometimes be a challenge.

What are my childcare options?

Finding a childcare program that meets the needs of you and your family can be a critical issue. The following information will provide you with a list and description of the four forms of child care most commonly used by in the US. Some programs have to comply with State licensing regulations, so a licensed childcare program may be another option to consider.

Childcare centers

Child care is typically provided to children in a non-residential building with classrooms of children in different age groups. Care is provided to children for less than 24 hours per day. State childcare licensing regulations include definitions of the types of childcare centers that must meet licensing requirements. These definitions often include a minimum number of children and/or a minimum number of hours the facility operates to determine whether it needs to be licensed.

Family child care

Child care is typically provided to children in the childcare provider’s residence. Family childcare homes usually provide care for a small number of children of mixed ages and have one care provider. As with centers, States have definitions of the types of family childcare homes that must be licensed. These definitions are usually based on the number of children in care. For example, several States require family childcare homes to be licensed if the provider cares for at least one unrelated child or the children from one family, but many States also allow homes with three or more children to operate without a license. Many States license two types of family childcare homes: a small home that has a small number of children and usually one provider to care for them; and a large/group home that usually has a larger number of children and a provider and assistant.

Family, friend, and neighbor care

Child care is provided by your relatives, friends, neighbors, and/or other adults who have a close relationship with you. Care can be provided in your home or your family’s, friend’s, or neighbor’s home.

Nanny/au pair

Child care is provided by one person hired by you to come into your home on a live-in or live-out basis. Nannies/au pairs can care for your children or groups of children from several families.

Tip:

• Talk to friends and relatives about the care they use. Ask about their experiences with the care provider, strengths and weakness of the programs.
•  Even if you have decided to delay returning to work, it is a good idea to start looking for care earlier rather than later. Some centers have large waiting lists, so if you find one you are happy with, put your name on the waiting list.

Parent story

I needed to put my daughter into a childcare center when she was eight weeks old. It was only for four or five hours twice a week, but I still found it difficult to leave her. I was very lucky in my choice of center. The staff was wonderful! As I was not working far away, they would call me when my baby was hungry, and I was able to go and breastfeed her. They even ‘wore’ her in a carrier. They put up with my calls when I would check on her, and my endless lists and instructions. I could not have done it without their support.
Janice

Further Information - National Child Care Information and Technical Assistance Center -  www.nccic.acf.hhs.gov

Related Tips

• Starting day care - toddler
• Starting daycare is a big step for both you and your child. Below are some tips to help your toddler ease into this new situation.
• more

• Guidelines to choosing a babysitter (ages 1-2)
• Even if you have relatives or friends, every now and then you may need to leave your child with a babysitter.
• more

• Babysitter information sheet (ages 1-2)
• What information do you need to give your babysitter that will help keep your children safe and happy?
• more