If you are looking for child care, you probably have
a good idea of what you want — a place that is
safe, happy, and loving, where children can learn
and have fun. At the same time, child care must
also meet your needs. Child care should be
convenient, affordable, and offer care when you
need it.
Finding child care that has the quality and
convenience you want —at a reasonable cost—can
be a real challenge. It is rare to find the perfect
situation but it is possible to find a very good
situation that will meet your needs.
Know Your Options
Family child care home The caregiver, who is
often a parent, provides care in his or her home.
Family child care homes that voluntarily choose to
register with the state will agree to meet certain
minimum standards. Registered family child care
homes usually care for a small group of children—
usually six or less. Family child care homes offer a
cozy, home-like setting and the opportunity for
siblings to stay together.
Child care centers Child care centers care for
larger groups of children. Children are usually
separated by age groups and play only with
children of their own age. As children grow older,
they may be moved to a different age group. In
most cases this also means they will have a
different caregiver every year. Because young
children develop very strong attachments to their
caregivers, this practice can be unsettling for some
children. Child care centers are licensed by the
state, which requires certain basic standards for
health and safety.
In-home care The caregiver comes to or lives in
your home. In-home care works well if you need
care for an infant or toddler, after-school care, or
evening and weekend care. In-home care is
convenient, but can be costly. You also may be
responsible for paying social security and workers
compensation for your in-home provider. In-home
caregivers are not regulated by the state.
Drop-in care Some family providers and center
programs allow drop-in care. You will usually need
to visit with the provider and sign your child