Child Care Help: Resources for Parents

Last updated 2 months ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

Choosing the right child care setting is a significant decision for any family, meaningfully impacting a child’s development and a family’s well-being.

This guide is designed to make the journey of understanding and selecting child care in the United States clearer and less overwhelming.

Parents often weigh many factors when considering child care options, such as the program size, physical environment (home versus classroom setting), hours of availability, and cost.

Understanding Child Care Regulation and Quality

Before exploring specific types of child care, it’s essential to understand the systems in place designed to protect children’s health and safety.

Why Licensing and Regulation Matter

Child care licensing is a fundamental process where state and territory governments establish minimum health and safety requirements that child care programs must meet to operate legally. This system of licensing and regulation is the primary method used in the U.S. to oversee child care.

It’s important for parents to recognize that while a license indicates a program has met basic standards, it doesn’t guarantee a high-quality program. However, it does set a critical baseline, ensuring that licensed programs offer environments where children can be healthy, safe, and have opportunities to grow and learn.

Licensing requirements typically cover several key areas:

• Mandatory staff background checks, including fingerprint checks for staff in licensed programs and adults living in family child care homes
• Staff qualifications and ongoing training in areas like CPR, first aid, and safe sleep practices
• Supervision requirements, including staff-to-child ratios and maximum group sizes
• Health practices, such as sanitation protocols and immunization requirements
• Building safety through fire code compliance and hazard-free spaces
• Emergency preparedness plans
• Ongoing monitoring and inspections

In some states, the term “registered” may be used instead of “licensed,” particularly for regulated family child care homes.

Licensing establishes minimum standards—the floor for health and safety, not the ceiling for quality. While verifying a license is an essential first step, parents will often want to look for additional indicators of higher quality, such as accreditation or higher ratings in state quality systems.

If there are concerns about a licensed program or if it seems to be operating unsafely, parents can file a complaint with their state or territory’s dedicated office.

How to Verify a Provider’s License Status

It is vital for parents to check if a child care program is licensed, registered, certified, or legally license-exempt. The primary resource for this information is your state or territory’s child care consumer education website. These can be accessed through ChildCare.gov. These state-specific websites often feature online search tools that allow parents to find licensed child care providers in their area.

Another key resource is your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency. CCR&Rs can provide information on licensed care options and help parents understand the specific regulations in their community. Child Care Aware® of America offers a search tool to find local CCR&Rs.

It’s also important to understand “legally license-exempt” status. Some child care programs are not required to have a state child care license to operate legally, provided they meet specific criteria defined by the state or territory.

For center-based programs, common exemptions include:

• Programs operated by public schools (regulated by education authorities)
• Certain faith-based programs or part-day programs like drop-in care or nursery schools
• Military child care programs regulated by the Department of Defense

For in-home child care, exemptions might apply if:

• The caregiver is related to the children
• The caregiver cares for only a very small number of children
• Care is provided only occasionally for a few hours a day

Understanding the distinction between a program that is legally exempt from licensing and one that is operating illegally without a required license is crucial. “Exempt” does not necessarily mean unregulated; for example, public school programs have their own oversight systems.

To determine if a specific program is required to be licensed, contact your state’s child care licensing agency, typically found through the state resources page on ChildCare.gov.

The National Database of Child Care Licensing Regulations is another valuable federal tool. It allows parents to find contact information for state licensing agencies, access licensing regulations, and find links to other early childhood program standards.

Making Sense of Inspection Reports and Quality Rating Systems

Once a program’s licensing status is determined, parents should review its inspection reports. These reports, often available on state child care consumer education websites, detail any violations of health and safety requirements found during inspections and whether those violations were corrected. They can also show if any complaints filed against the program were found to be valid.

Beyond basic licensing compliance, many states have implemented Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS). These systems measure and promote program features that contribute to higher quality care, going beyond minimum licensing standards.

QRIS typically use easily understandable symbols, like stars, to indicate different quality levels, with programs earning higher ratings as they meet more defined quality standards. These standards often assess:

• Provider and staff education and training
• Curriculum and learning activities
• Enhanced health and safety practices
• Staff-to-child ratios and group sizes
• Business and administrative practices

It’s common for the first level in a QRIS to simply require that a program is in good standing with state licensing requirements. Information about a state’s QRIS can usually be found on the state’s page on ChildCare.gov or by contacting the local CCR&R agency.

Accreditation by a recognized national or local organization is another voluntary indicator that a program has met quality standards that often exceed state licensing requirements. Organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) offer accreditation.

Navigating these different layers of quality assurance—licensing, inspection reports, QRIS ratings, and accreditation—provides a more nuanced assessment. Quality exists on a spectrum, and your active investigation is key to finding the best fit for your child.

Exploring the Spectrum of Child Care Settings

With a foundational understanding of regulation and quality indicators, families can begin to explore the diverse landscape of child care settings available in the U.S. Each type offers a unique environment and approach to care.

At-a-Glance: Comparing Child Care Setting Types

The following table provides a quick comparison of different child care options:

Table 1: Comparing Child Care Setting Types

Cost Indication: $ = Generally Lower Cost, $$ = Moderate Cost, $$$ = Generally Higher Cost. This is a general guide; actual costs vary significantly.

Child Care Centers

Child care centers are a popular option for many families, offering structured care in a group setting.

What to Expect at Child Care Centers

Child care centers typically provide care for groups of children, who are often placed in classrooms organized by age. These facilities are usually located in commercial buildings and are managed by a center director responsible for overseeing the program and staff.

Operations can be run by various entities, including individual owners, for-profit corporate chains, government agencies, public schools, or non-profit organizations such as faith-based groups and community organizations.

Most child care centers offer full-time services and are equipped to serve a range of ages, including infants, toddlers, preschool-aged children, and sometimes school-age children. Families often select centers for the structured, classroom-like environment they provide, the potential for a wider variety of equipment and activities, and the assurance of having multiple adults present.

Licensing and Oversight

Center-based child care programs are frequently required to be licensed by their state or territory. This licensing mandates adherence to basic health and safety requirements and includes monitoring to ensure ongoing compliance.

However, exemptions from licensing can exist. For instance, if a center is already regulated by a different government agency, such as a public school, or if it’s a faith-based or part-time program (like drop-in care or nursery schools), it might be legally “license-exempt”.

It is imperative for parents to verify the licensing status of any center they are considering and to review its inspection reports. State-specific licensing information can typically be found by visiting ChildCare.gov and navigating to the resources for a particular state or territory.

Pros and Cons of Child Care Centers

Advantages:

• Age-specific groupings for activities and curriculum
• Dedicated equipment and physical space
• Potential for continuity of care with the same caregiver group
• Ability to accommodate families with multiple children of different ages
• Multiple staff means substitutes are available if a regular caregiver is sick
• Structured environment and variety of activities
• Non-profit and public centers may be associated with higher quality care

Potential Drawbacks:

• Some children may find caregiver shifts unsettling
• Staff turnover can be an issue
• Potential increased exposure to illnesses
• Large group setting may not suit every child’s personality
• Possibly inconvenient hours or locations
• Potentially higher costs compared to other options
• Long waiting lists, particularly for infant and toddler spots

Typical Costs

The cost of center-based child care can be substantial. According to Child Care Aware® of America, the national average price of child care for 2023 was $11,582 per year. For an infant in a center, this average rose to $14,257 annually.

These figures often represent a significant portion of a family’s income, potentially exceeding 10% for a married couple with children and 32% for a single parent with children. In many areas, the cost of child care for two children in a center can surpass annual mortgage payments, average rent, and even in-state university tuition.

Costs vary considerably based on the state or region, the age of the child, and the specific center. For localized data, parents can consult the National Database of Childcare Prices, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor, which offers county-level price information.

Tips for Choosing a Quality Center

When visiting and evaluating child care centers, ChildCare.gov provides a helpful resource: the “Look, Listen, and Ask: Choosing a Child Care Center” tip sheet. Key aspects to observe and inquire about include:

Interactions:

• How do teachers speak with children?
• Do they engage at the child’s eye level and greet each child warmly?

Environment:

• Is the classroom layout conducive to supervision?
• Is the space clean, well-organized, and equipped with age-appropriate toys?
• Are indoor and outdoor play areas and equipment safe and in good repair?

Health and Safety:

• What are the handwashing procedures for staff and children?
• What are the policies for drop-off/pick-up, program closures, emergency planning, and child discipline?
• How are challenging behaviors handled?

Communication and Curriculum:

• How does the program share details of a child’s day with families?
• Are meals and snacks provided?
• What are the education and training requirements for the director and teachers?
• How does the program accommodate each child’s individual needs and personal schedule?

For Infants and Toddlers:

• How are bottles stored (labeled, refrigerated)?
• How close are caregivers to the children (holding, feeding, playing)?
• How much time do children spend in restrictive devices like swings or high chairs?
• Observe sleep practices: each infant should have their own labeled crib and be placed on their back to sleep without toys, bumpers, or blankets
• How are diapering surfaces cleaned and disinfected?

For Preschoolers:

• Look for child-sized furniture that allows for collaboration
• Check for distinct play areas (blocks, dramatic play, art, books, science)
• Look for soft, cozy spaces where children can relax
• Inquire about how the program supports nap and rest time

Family Child Care Homes

Family child care homes offer a distinct alternative to center-based care, providing services within the caregiver’s own home.

What to Expect at Family Child Care Homes

Family child care (FCC) is defined as care provided for a small group of children within the provider’s private residence, which could be a house, apartment, or condominium unit. These settings typically serve a mixed-age group of children, which can include infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and older children, often allowing siblings to be cared for together in one environment.

State regulations often limit the number of infants and toddlers a single provider can care for to ensure adequate supervision and safety.

Common characteristics of family child care include:

• A home-like atmosphere
• A smaller group size compared to centers
• Greater consistency in caregivers
• Often more flexible hours, including evening and weekend care
• Sometimes less expensive than center-based programs

Licensing and Oversight

States and territories utilize licensing or, in some cases, “registration” systems to regulate family child care homes. These regulations typically limit the number of children that can be cared for in a home and establish essential health and safety requirements.

Licensed providers are generally required to complete training (such as CPR and First Aid), undergo criminal background checks, and meet other standards related to the care environment.

Licensing requirements for FCC homes vary significantly from state to state. The threshold for when a license is required is often tied to the number of unrelated children being cared for in the home.

Some family child care providers may be legally exempt from licensing requirements under specific circumstances outlined by their state or territory. It is critically important for parents to understand the difference between a provider who is legally license-exempt and one who is operating illegally without a required license.

Parents should always inquire directly with a provider about their licensing status and independently verify this information through their state or territory’s child care consumer education website or their local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency.

Pros and Cons of Family Child Care Homes

Advantages:

• Often less expensive than centers
• May offer more convenient locations and hours, including evenings or weekends
• Home-like atmosphere can ease a child’s transition
• Single, consistent caregiver throughout the day
• Mixed-age group setting can feel more like a family
• Allows siblings of different ages to be cared for together

Potential Drawbacks:

• If the provider closes their business, it can lead to turnover in care arrangements
• If the provider becomes sick, there might be no substitute care available
• Providers often work long hours with little direct supervision
• Equipment, toys, and space may not be exclusively dedicated to child care
• Caregivers may have less formal education in early childhood development
• Children might spend more time watching television in some settings

Typical Costs

Family child care homes are often a more affordable option compared to child care centers. According to national data from Child Care Aware® of America for 2023, the average annual cost for an infant in a family child care home was $10,456, and for a 4-year-old, it was $9,483.

As with all child care, these costs can vary significantly based on the region, the age of the child, and the specific provider.

Tips for Choosing a Quality Family Child Care Home

ChildCare.gov offers a guide to assist parents in their selection process. Important areas to focus on during visits and discussions include:

Safety and Environment:

• Are all areas of the home used for child care safe, well-organized, and clean?
• Can the provider easily supervise all children?
• Is the outdoor play space, along with its equipment and toys, safe and appropriate?

Daily Routine and Activities:

• Is there a daily schedule that includes a mix of activities?
• Is there a variety of clean, age-appropriate toys that children can easily access?

Provider Interaction:

• Does the provider get down to the children’s eye level to speak and play with them?
• Do they greet each child and show genuine interest in what the children are doing?
• Is their tone of voice positive and nurturing?

Health Practices:

• Do the provider and children wash their hands frequently?
• How are meals prepared and individual needs (napping, feeding) met?
• What is the policy for sick children?

Policies and Communication:

• Request a copy of the program’s handbook or written policies
• How does the provider keep families informed about program happenings and their child’s day?

Other Adults in the Home:

• Are there other adults or older children present during child care hours?
• Have all adults in the home undergone a criminal background check?

Provider Qualifications:

• What is the provider’s education, experience, and ongoing training in child development and safety?

For Infants and Toddlers:

• Observe how much time children spend in restrictive devices (should be minimal)
• Check the variety of toys available
• Observe how bottles are handled and stored
• Check sleep arrangements (infants on backs in cribs with no loose items)
• Verify diapering procedures ensure surfaces are cleaned and disinfected

Family child care homes play a crucial role in the child care ecosystem, particularly for infants and toddlers, families in rural areas where other options may be scarce, and families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds who may find a provider sharing their heritage.

Preschool and Prekindergarten Programs

Preschool and prekindergarten (often termed “pre-K”) programs are designed with a specific emphasis on preparing young children for the transition to formal schooling.

What to Expect at Preschools and Pre-K

These programs typically serve children between the ages of 3 and 5 years, with a primary goal of fostering kindergarten readiness. Many preschool programs and prekindergarten offerings are open only during the traditional school year and may only operate for part of the day, though full-day options exist.

A variety of organizations host these programs, including public schools, private schools, child care centers, places of worship, and other non-profit entities. The terminology can vary by location, with common names such as public preschool, pre-k, junior-kindergarten, or state-funded preschool.

An attractive feature for many families is that numerous states provide free or low-cost pre-K programs, especially for those who meet certain qualifying criteria. Compared to some traditional daycare settings, preschools and pre-K programs generally place a stronger emphasis on early childhood education and academic skill-building to prepare children for elementary school.

While the terms “preschool” and “daycare” are sometimes used interchangeably, and many daycare centers offer robust preschool curricula, there can be a difference in primary focus. Preschools often have a more explicit mission centered on educational experiences and school readiness for older children (typically 3-5 years old), whereas “daycare” may sometimes imply a broader age range and a greater emphasis on custodial care, though quality daycares also provide rich learning environments.

Licensing and Oversight

The licensing and oversight of preschool and pre-K programs vary. Some programs are required to have a child care license to operate, similar to child care centers. Others may be legally exempt from this specific type of licensing if they are regulated and monitored by another government agency, such as the state’s Department of Education (particularly for programs within public schools).

It is important for parents to review their state or territory’s specific child care licensing requirements to understand how different types of preschool programs are regulated. Generally, programs seeking licensure must complete an application, ensure staff undergo background checks, and pass inspections to demonstrate they meet state-mandated health and safety standards.

Pros and Cons of Preschool Programs

Advantages:

• Focus on early learning, which can inspire a lifelong love of learning
• Teachers often have specialized training in early childhood education
• Valuable opportunities for social interaction with peers
• Structured routine can help children flourish and ease transition into formal schooling
• Most regulated preschools provide a safe and supervised environment
• Quality preschool experiences can boost cognitive abilities and early school achievement

Considerations:

• Group setting means less one-on-one attention compared to nanny care
• An early focus on academics might lead to frustration if not developmentally appropriate
• Many preschools follow a school calendar, meaning closures for holidays and summer
• Might not offer before- or after-care, which can be challenging for working parents
• Starting preschool can sometimes lead to separation anxiety for young children

Interestingly, even if some initial cognitive advantages appear to diminish over time, the long-term benefits of high-quality preschool education often extend far beyond academics. Studies have shown that participation in such programs can lead to lasting positive effects, including greater educational attainment later in life, higher future earnings, and lower rates of crime.

Typical Costs

The cost of preschool and pre-K programs varies dramatically depending on several factors, including geographic location, whether the program is public or private, the number of hours or days per week the child attends, and the specific services offered.

Many states offer publicly funded pre-K programs that are free or available at a low cost to eligible families. For private preschools, costs can be substantial. Anecdotal reports indicate a wide range, from around $350 per month for a half-day program to $2,400 or more per month per child in higher-cost areas.

Data from Child Care Aware® of America for 2023 indicated that the average annual cost for a 4-year-old in a center-based program (which would include many preschools) was $11,431.

Tips for Choosing a Quality Preschool

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) provides valuable guidance on identifying high-quality preschool programs. When evaluating options, parents should look for:

A Caring Community of Learners:

• Teachers should be warm and caring, building strong relationships with each child and family
• The program should help children learn how to play and work together, make friends, and ensure activities are inclusive
• The family’s language and culture should be respected and incorporated into the program

Effective Teaching Practices:

• High-quality programs provide materials and activities that are both interesting and challenging
• Teachers should encourage children’s efforts with specific, positive feedback
• There should be a balance between teacher-guided activities and those that children choose themselves

A Meaningful Curriculum:

• The curriculum should support all areas of a child’s development—social, emotional, cognitive, and physical
• Learning should be active and hands-on, appropriate for the age group, and foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills

Ongoing Assessment of Children’s Learning:

• Teachers should regularly observe children, take notes on their progress, and collect samples of their work
• They might use screening tests to identify children who may need additional learning support
• They should communicate with families about the child’s activities and interests

Strong Relationships with Families:

• Quality programs actively listen to families’ goals and concerns
• They encourage family participation in various ways
• They show respect for each family’s unique background, language, and culture

NAEYC also highlights warning signs that might indicate lower quality, such as a disorganized environment, teachers who don’t actively participate in children’s activities, inconsistent behavior management, punitive responses to misbehavior, and poor communication with families.

Head Start and Early Head Start Programs

Head Start and Early Head Start are unique, federally funded programs designed to provide comprehensive services to young children from low-income families, going well beyond what is typically offered in other child care settings.

What to Expect at Head Start/Early Head Start

Head Start (HS) and Early Head Start (EHS) are free programs funded by the federal government, specifically the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF). Their primary mission is to promote school readiness in young children from families with low incomes.

• Early Head Start (EHS) programs serve pregnant women and families with infants and toddlers younger than 3 years old
• Head Start (HS) programs serve children between the ages of 3 and 5

What sets these programs apart is their comprehensive approach. They provide services centered around three key areas:

Early Learning and Development:

• Teachers facilitate individualized learning experiences to promote school readiness
• Focus on language and literacy, early math and science concepts, and social and emotional development
• Learning is fostered through planned and spontaneous instruction, relationships with adults, and play

Health:

• Children receive health and development screenings, nutritious meals, oral health support, and mental health services
• Programs connect families with essential medical, dental, and mental health services in the community

Family Well-being:

• Parents and families are supported in achieving their own goals, such as housing stability, continuing education, and financial security
• Programs work to support and strengthen parent-child relationships and actively engage families in their children’s learning and development

These programs are typically run by local entities, which can include non-profit organizations, community action agencies, school districts, for-profit groups, faith-based institutions, and tribal councils.

The comprehensive nature of Head Start and Early Head Start positions them as more than just child care providers; they function as a two-generation anti-poverty strategy. By focusing on both the child’s development and the family’s overall well-being, these programs aim to improve outcomes for both children and their parents simultaneously.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility for Head Start and Early Head Start is primarily based on family income. Children from families with incomes at or below the federal poverty guidelines (which can be found on the HHS website) are eligible.

Additionally, children in certain circumstances are eligible regardless of family income, including:

• Those in foster care
• Those experiencing homelessness
• Children from families receiving public assistance such as TANF, SSI, or SNAP

Programs also have the option to enroll a limited number of children who do not meet these specific eligibility criteria. Specialized programs like Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (MSHS) and American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) Head Start have their own tailored eligibility requirements.

To apply, families should contact their local Head Start program. The official Head Start Locator tool is available online, or families can call the toll-free number 866-763-6481 for assistance.

Due to funding limitations, there are generally more eligible children than available slots, so many programs maintain waiting lists.

Benefits for Children and Families

The impact of Head Start and Early Head Start programs is well-documented and significant:

For Children:

• Improved school readiness, including enhanced cognitive, language, and social-emotional development
• Long-term benefits including higher likelihood of graduating from high school and attending college
• Better overall social, emotional, and behavioral development
• Early Head Start participants, by age 3, often demonstrate significantly better performance on a range of cognitive, language, and social-emotional measures

For Families:

• Support for parents to achieve goals related to housing, education, and financial stability
• Focus on strengthening parent-child relationships
• Active engagement in the child’s learning journey
• Connections to vital community services, including free medical and dental care
• Improvements in home environments and parenting behaviors
• Progress toward economic self-sufficiency

Program Settings

Head Start and Early Head Start programs are designed to be responsive to the needs of their local communities. They can deliver services in various settings:

Center-based services are typically located in child development centers. More than half of all Head Start children are enrolled in center-based options, which often operate five days a week for at least six hours per day.

Home-based services involve program staff making regular visits to the family’s own home to deliver services, complemented by planned group socialization activities. More than a third of children enrolled in Early Head Start programs receive services through this home-based model.

Family child care services are delivered within a licensed family child care home that partners with the Head Start program.

Locally-designed services offer a flexible combination of the above settings, tailored to the specific needs identified by the community assessment.

This federal-to-local model is a key strength of Head Start. It allows local program leaders to create an experience that is uniquely responsive to the challenges and opportunities within their service area, all while adhering to rigorous federal performance standards.

School-Age Child Care and Camp Programs

For families with children in elementary and middle school, care needs often extend beyond the regular school day and school year. School-age child care and camp programs are designed to meet these needs.

What to Expect at School-Age Programs

Also referred to as out-of-school-time (OST) care, these programs offer children engaging learning and recreational experiences in a variety of school- and community-based settings when they are not in school. The need for such care is often dictated by the daily schedule and annual calendar of the child’s school. This includes:

• Before-school care and afterschool care: Providing supervision and activities before the school day begins and after it ends
• School vacation programs: Offering care during school holidays, teacher workdays, and longer breaks
• Summer camps: Providing full-day programs during the summer vacation period

These programs typically serve school-age children, usually up to age 13. The activities offered are diverse and can include arts and crafts, swimming, drama, dance, organized sports, homework assistance, academic enrichment, and community service projects.

Programs operate in various locations, such as dedicated child care centers, family child care homes, community recreation centers, youth organizations (like Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and 21st Century Community Learning Centers), places of worship, and often directly on-site at local schools, which is convenient for transportation.

These programs are more than just supervision; they can offer significant developmental benefits. They provide a safe, adult-supervised environment that can foster academic improvement, social skills, physical health, and positive peer relationships.

Licensing and Oversight

The licensing requirements for school-age child care and camp programs vary considerably by state and territory. Some programs are required to have a child care license to operate legally. Others may be permitted to operate without a specific child care license if they are regulated and monitored by another government agency, such as the public school system or the local health department.

For summer camps, in addition to any state or local licensing, some programs may seek accreditation from the American Camp Association (ACA), which signifies adherence to a range of quality and safety standards.

When reviewing inspection reports for licensed school-age programs, parents should look for compliance with key health and safety standards, including staff background checks, appropriate staff-to-child ratios, staff training, and emergency preparedness plans.

Pros and Cons of School-Age Programs

Advantages:

• Safe and adult-supervised environment for children when parents are working
• Academic enrichment, including dedicated time for homework completion
• Activities that promote learning, which can lead to improved grades and increased motivation
• Opportunities for physical activity, social skills development, and positive peer relationships
• May include mentorship components and healthy snacks or meals
• Opportunities for community service and civic engagement

Challenges:

• Cost and access can be significant barriers, especially for low-income families
• Increasing unmet need for affordable and accessible afterschool programs

Typical Costs

The cost of school-age programs varies based on the type of program, its location, the hours of care provided, and the activities offered. According to a 2020 report by the Afterschool Alliance, the average weekly cost for afterschool programs nationally (among parents who reported paying a fee) was $99.40.

Summer camps, especially full-day specialty camps, can be significantly more expensive.

The funding for school-age care is often a complex patchwork. It can come from various sources, including federal grants, block grants, entitlement programs, and parent fees. This diverse funding landscape means that the cost and availability of programs can differ greatly from one community to another.

Finding Quality School-Age Programs

Parents can begin their search for school-age programs by using their state or territory’s online child care search tool, typically accessible through ChildCare.gov. It’s also advisable to contact the child’s elementary school directly, as many schools offer on-site before- and afterschool programs or can provide information about programs that serve their students.

When evaluating programs, parents should inquire about:

• Licensing and accreditation status
• Staff qualifications, training, and background checks
• Health and safety practices and emergency plans
• Staff-to-child ratios
• A typical day’s schedule and activities
• The program’s approach to discipline and behavior management
• Communication with families
• The physical environment’s safety, cleanliness, and age-appropriate materials

Informal In-Home Child Care

Informal in-home child care encompasses arrangements where care is provided in the child’s own home or the caregiver’s home by individuals such as nannies, relatives, friends, or babysitters. These arrangements are generally not regulated by state child care licensing agencies in the same manner as child care centers or licensed family child care homes.

Nanny Care

Hiring a nanny is a popular choice for families seeking personalized, in-home child care.

What to Expect from Nanny Care:

A nanny is an individual who provides child care, typically within the children’s own family setting. Nannies may live with the family (“live-in nanny”) or commute to the family’s home (“live-out nanny”).

Nanny care often involves a comprehensive range of duties beyond basic supervision, such as preparing meals for the children, bathing them, engaging them in play and educational activities, and transporting them to school or other activities.

Legal and Tax Obligations:

When a family hires a nanny and controls not only what work is done but also how it is done, the nanny is generally considered a household employee by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This classification comes with significant legal and tax responsibilities.

If a family pays a household employee $2,800 or more in cash wages during the 2025 calendar year (or $1,000 or more in any calendar quarter for federal unemployment insurance tax purposes), they are typically required to handle “nanny taxes”. These taxes include:

• Taxes withheld from the employee’s wages: Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA), and federal and state income taxes (if applicable and agreed upon)
• Taxes paid by the employer: The employer’s matching share of FICA taxes, as well as federal and state unemployment insurance taxes

To comply with these obligations, families generally need to:

• Obtain tax identification numbers
• Calculate and track payroll
• File year-end tax forms

Failure to comply with household employment tax laws can lead to significant consequences, including liability for back taxes, penalties, interest, and in some cases, charges of tax evasion.

Pros and Cons of Nanny Care:

Advantages:

• Child remains in their familiar home environment
• Dedicated one-on-one attention from the caregiver
• Potentially lower exposure to germs compared to group care
• No daily drop-offs and pick-ups
• More control over the child’s daily activities and schedule
• Consistent caregiver can become a stable attachment figure
• Flexible to accommodate parents’ work schedules
• Some nannies may perform light household duties related to the children

Disadvantages:

• Not formally regulated like licensed child care facilities
• No direct oversight of the nanny’s day-to-day activities
• No built-in substitute if the nanny is sick or takes vacation
• Typically the most expensive child care option
• Requires managing an employer-employee relationship
• Potential disagreements over child-rearing philosophies

Typical Costs:

Nanny care is generally considered the most expensive form of child care. The International Nanny Association reports that the average hourly rate for full-time nannies in the United States ranges from $25 to $35 per hour. Data from Care.com for 2024 indicated an average weekly cost for a nanny at $827.

These costs can vary significantly based on geographic location, the nanny’s experience and qualifications, the number of children being cared for, and the specific duties involved.

Vetting and Background Checks:

Given the lack of formal regulation and oversight specific to nannies, the onus is on parents to conduct thorough vetting. To legally run most types of background checks, a family generally needs to establish themselves as an employer or obtain explicit written consent from the nanny.

Key types of checks to consider include:

• Criminal history
• Identity verification
• Motor vehicle report
• Drug screening
• Employment and education verification
• Credit report
• Civil litigation search

Thoroughly checking references is equally critical. Parents should ask specific, open-ended questions to past employers about the nanny’s performance, reliability, communication style, activities with children, and how they handled various situations.

Care by Relatives or Friends

Care provided by relatives (like grandparents, aunts, or uncles) or close family friends is a common and often preferred arrangement for many families. This is frequently referred to as family, friend, and neighbor (FFN) care.

Common Scenarios and Considerations:

FFN care is typically provided in either the child’s own home or the caregiver’s home. Families often choose this type of care due to:

• Existing trust and comfort with a known individual
• Child’s potential for feeling more secure in a familiar setting
• Inherent flexibility in scheduling
• Convenience of the arrangement
• Often lower cost or no cost if provided informally

Like nanny care, FFN care is generally not regulated by state child care licensing agencies. State laws often exempt care provided exclusively by relatives from licensing requirements. Similarly, many states exempt individuals who care for the children of only one other family from needing a child care license.

Tax Implications and Legal Aspects:

Even when care is provided by a relative or friend, if the family pays for these services to enable them to work or look for work, certain tax rules and benefits may apply. Parents may be eligible for the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC). To claim this federal tax credit:

• The payments cannot be made to someone the parent can claim as a dependent
• Payments cannot be made to the parent’s spouse
• Payments cannot be made to the parent of the qualifying child if that child is under age 13
• If payments are made to the parent’s own child, that child cannot be the parent’s dependent and must be age 19 or older by the end of the tax year

Furthermore, if a family pays a relative or friend to come into their home to provide child care, and the payment amounts meet certain thresholds, the family may be considered a household employer. This would require them to pay household employment taxes.

FFN care represents a significant portion of child care arrangements in the U.S., valued for its inherent trust, flexibility, and cultural congruence. However, because it largely operates outside formal quality assurance systems, the quality and safety of care depend heavily on the individuals involved and the clarity of the arrangement between the parents and the caregiver.

Au Pair Care

Au pair care offers a unique live-in child care solution that combines caregiving with an international cultural exchange experience.

What to Expect from Au Pair Care:

An au pair is a young adult, typically between the ages of 18 and 26, who travels from a foreign country to the United States to live with a host family for a defined period, usually one to two years. During their stay, the au pair provides child care services to the host family’s children and, in return, receives room, board, a weekly stipend, and the opportunity to experience American culture and often attend educational courses.

Au pairs travel to the U.S. on a J-1 Visitor Exchange Visa, a program regulated by the U.S. Department of State.

The primary role of an au pair is child care. This can include tasks such as:

• Waking and dressing children
• Preparing meals and snacks
• Assisting with homework
• Tidying children’s rooms and play areas
• Doing children’s laundry
• Driving children to school and activities
• Engaging children in educational play

A key aspect of the program is the cultural exchange: au pairs share their native culture and language with the host family while learning about American life.

It is important to distinguish au pair care from nanny care. While both provide in-home child care, an au pair participates in a highly regulated, government-sponsored cultural exchange program, whereas a nanny is typically a direct employee of the family.

Program Regulations and J-1 Visas:

The au pair program in the United States is strictly regulated by the U.S. Department of State. Families wishing to host an au pair must work through one of the Department of State-designated sponsor agencies. A list of these designated sponsor organizations can be found on the official J-1 Visa website.

Key regulations and requirements include:

Au Pair Qualifications:

• Typically 18-26 years old
• Completed secondary education (or equivalent)
• Proficient English skills
• Documented child care experience
• Must pass a background check

Host Family Responsibilities:

• Provide the au pair with a suitable private bedroom, three meals a day, and a minimum weekly stipend
• Contribute up to $500 towards the au pair’s educational requirement
• Ensure the au pair completes at least six semester hours of academic credit at an accredited U.S. post-secondary institution

Work Hour Limits:

• Maximum of 45 hours per week
• No more than 10 hours in any single day

Time Off:

• At least 1.5 consecutive days off per week
• At least one full weekend off each month
• Two weeks of paid vacation during the 12-month term

J-1 Visa Process:

• Managed by the designated sponsor agency
• Requires submitting forms such as the DS-2019 and DS-160
• Requires paying SEVIS fee and visa application fee
• Requires attending an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate

Pros and Cons of Au Pair Care:

Advantages:

• Affordable live-in child care (weekly stipend is per family, not per child)
• Flexibility in child care hours, accommodating long or irregular work schedules
• No daily commute to a child care facility
• Cultural exchange exposes children to a new language and different customs
• Au pair often becomes an integrated member of the family

Considerations:

• Au pairs are primarily students participating in a cultural exchange; their training may be limited compared to professional nannies
• Generally not recommended for families requiring specialized care for children with significant disabilities without ensuring specific qualifications
• Typically a short-term solution (one year, with possible extensions)
• Host families usually cannot meet the au pair in person before committing
• Potential language and cultural barriers
• Having another adult living in the home changes family dynamics
• Administrative aspect of working with an agency

Typical Costs and Agency Fees:

The cost of hosting an au pair involves several components:

Agency Fees:

• Paid to the designated sponsor agency for recruiting, screening, matching, processing visa paperwork, and providing ongoing support
• Can be around $10,000 per year

Au Pair Stipend:

• Minimum weekly stipend is $195.75 (based on federal regulations), amounting to $10,179 annually
• Can be higher if the family agrees to pay more, or if state laws dictate a higher rate

Educational Contribution:

• Host families must contribute up to $500 towards the au pair’s required educational coursework

Other Costs:

• Room and board (food and utilities)
• Potentially adding the au pair to car insurance
• Providing a cell phone or phone plan
• Costs associated with including the au pair in family vacations

Overall, host parent estimates for the “all-in” cost of an au pair typically range from $20,000 to $40,000 per year.

Finding and Vetting Sponsor Agencies:

As mandated by U.S. Department of State regulations, families must use a designated sponsor agency to participate in the au pair program. A current list of these agencies is maintained on the Department of State’s J-1 Visa program website.

These agencies are responsible for:

• Comprehensive screening of au pair applicants
• Facilitating the matching process between au pairs and host families
• Managing the J-1 visa application process
• Providing ongoing support and supervision throughout the program year

When selecting a sponsor agency, families should inquire about:

• Specific screening procedures
• Training provided to au pairs
• Support services offered to both families and au pairs
• Structure of fees

Parent Cooperative Preschools

Parent cooperative preschools, often called “co-op preschools,” offer a unique model where parents are integral to the operation and educational experience of the program.

What to Expect at Parent Cooperatives

A parent cooperative preschool is typically organized by a group of families who share similar educational philosophies. These families collectively hire a trained, professional teacher to provide their children (usually aged 3-5 years) with a quality preschool experience.

The defining characteristic of a cooperative preschool is the direct and active involvement of parents in nearly all aspects of the school. Parents:

• Assist the teacher in the classroom on a rotating basis
• Participate in the administration and maintenance of the school
• Are often involved in decision-making processes

These programs strongly emphasize parent education and often adopt a play-based learning philosophy, providing hands-on experiences in areas like creative arts, music, science, and literature, all tailored to be developmentally appropriate.

Many co-ops aim to create an “extended family” or “family of families” atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of community among participating families and children.

This model demands significant parental involvement but, in return, offers deep engagement in a child’s early education and a strong community network.

How Co-ops Operate

Parent cooperatives are typically structured as non-profit organizations and are administered by a board elected from the parent membership. Parents share responsibilities for:

• Business operations of the school
• Assisting in the classroom as teaching assistants
• Contributing to fundraising, maintenance, and policy-making

The licensing requirements for parent cooperative preschools can vary by state. In some jurisdictions, certain parent cooperatives may be exempt from standard child care licensing if they meet specific criteria. These criteria often include:

• Care is rotated among families on an unpaid basis
• Every adult caregiver is a parent, legal guardian, or adult relative of at least one child enrolled
• No more than a small number of children are cared for in the same place at the same time

If these conditions are not met, or if the state does not offer such an exemption, the cooperative may need to obtain a child care license.

Parent Cooperative Preschools International (PCPI) is an international organization that provides resources and support to member co-op preschools.

The operational model, heavily reliant on a parent-run board and shared responsibilities, means the success and continuity of a co-op depend significantly on the ongoing commitment, active participation, and effective collaboration of the parent group.

Pros and Cons of Parent Cooperatives

Benefits for Parents:

• Direct involvement in their child’s early education
• Insights into child behavior and development by observing multiple children
• Learning effective parenting and teaching techniques
• Strong sense of community and mutual support among families
• Potentially more affordable access to quality preschool education

Benefits for Children:

• Supervised play and learning environment with peers
• High adult-to-child ratio due to parent participation
• Rich environment with developmentally appropriate materials and activities
• Opportunity to interact with multiple caring adults
• Potential for developing a positive attitude towards school and learning

Primary Consideration:

• Significant time commitment required from parents (classroom participation, administrative tasks, committee work, fundraising, maintenance)
• May not be feasible for families where all parents work full-time with inflexible schedules
• Not a drop-off child care solution

Typical Costs

Parent cooperative preschools are generally among the less expensive child care options because the active involvement of parents in running the school helps to keep tuition fees lower than those of traditional preschools or child care centers where all staff are paid employees.

In “true” cooperative arrangements where parents rotate all care responsibilities and no professional teacher is hired, money may not be exchanged for the care itself, but only for shared costs of materials, food, or special activities.

More commonly, co-ops hire a professional teacher, and tuition fees cover the teacher’s salary, rent for the space, insurance, supplies, and other operational costs. Even in these cases, parent labor significantly subsidizes the overall cost.

Specialized Child Care Options

Beyond the more common types of child care, some specialized options cater to particular communities or needs, such as military families and employees of certain companies.

Military Child Care

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) operates one of the most extensive employer-sponsored child care systems in the country, recognizing that access to reliable, high-quality child care is critical for military personnel and their families.

Overview of DoD Programs and Standards:

The Military Child Care Act of 1989 (MCCA) laid the groundwork for improving the availability, management, quality, and safety of child care provided on military installations. The DoD is committed to providing quality, affordable child care options worldwide.

Military-operated child care programs are required to be DoD certified and must meet national accreditation standards, ensuring a baseline of quality. Similarly, military Family Child Care (FCC) providers operating in their homes on or near installations are licensed and regularly monitored by their respective service branches.

This robust system is viewed as integral to mission success by supporting the unique needs of military families who often face frequent relocations and non-traditional work schedules.

Types of Care Available:

The DoD offers a range of child care program types:

Child Development Centers (CDCs):

• Facility-based programs typically located on military installations
• Provide care for infants, pre-toddlers, toddlers, and preschoolers
• Generally operate Monday through Friday during standard work hours
• May offer full-day, part-day, and hourly care options

Family Child Care (FCC) Homes:

• Programs offered by qualified child care professionals in their own homes
• Often located on or near military bases
• Care for children from infancy through school age
• May offer flexible scheduling including extended hours

School-Age Care (SAC) Programs:

• Facility-based programs for children from kindergarten through seventh grade
• Provide before-school care, afterschool care, care on school-out days, and summer camp programs

24/7 Centers:

• Provide child care around the clock in a home-like setting
• Designed primarily to support personnel who work rotating shifts or non-traditional hours
• Priority given to sponsors requiring 24/7 care

Child Care in Your Home (CCYH) Pilot Program:

• Fee assistance program to help military families with non-traditional work schedules
• Covers the cost of full-time child care provided in their own homes by a caregiver of their choice
• Being tested in select high-demand regions

Eligibility and Accessing Care:

Eligibility for military child care programs generally extends to:

• Active duty military personnel
• Members of the National Guard and Reserve components on active duty
• DoD civilian employees

The primary portal for accessing these programs is MilitaryChildCare.com. This official DoD website allows families to search for all types of military-operated child care and military-approved community-based care options worldwide.

Financial assistance is a key component of the military child care system:

For On-Base/Military-Operated Programs:

• Fees are typically based on a sliding scale according to Total Family Income (TFI)

Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN):

• Fee assistance program for eligible families who cannot access military-operated child care
• Subsidies help offset the cost of care at approved civilian child care programs
• Amount calculated as the difference between what the family would pay for on-base care and the community provider’s rate

Additional resources and information for military families can often be found through Military OneSource.

Employer-Sponsored Child Care

Some employers offer child care benefits as part of their efforts to support working parents, attract and retain talent, and improve employee productivity.

Types of Employer-Sponsored Options:

Employer-sponsored child care refers to any investment a company makes to help its employees manage their child care needs. These benefits can take various forms:

• On-site or Near-site Child Care Centers: Facilities directly at or near the workplace
• Child Care Subsidies or Vouchers: Financial assistance for tuition at existing community centers
• Priority Enrollment or Reserved Slots: Contracted arrangements with local programs
• Backup Child Care Services: Emergency care when regular arrangements are unavailable
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (DCFSAs): Pre-tax salary deductions for care expenses
• Family Stipends or Allowances: Taxable cash stipends for family-related expenses
• Flexible Work Schedules or Telecommuting Options: Policies to help parents manage work and care

Regulations and Tax Credits for Employers:

Employers who provide child care assistance can benefit from certain federal tax incentives. The Employer-Provided Childcare Credit (Internal Revenue Code Section 45F) allows eligible employers to claim a tax credit of up to $150,000 per year.

Employers can also establish Dependent Care Assistance Programs (DCAPs), which allow them to provide child care benefits to employees that are excludable from the employee’s gross income for tax purposes, up to an annual limit (typically $5,000 per employee).

Any on-site child care center operated by an employer must still comply with state and local child care licensing requirements, unless a specific exemption applies.

Pros and Cons for Employees:

Advantages:

• Convenience of on-site or near-site centers
• Cost savings if subsidized
• Improved work-life balance
• Peace of mind and increased productivity
• Support for career continuity

Considerations:

• “Golden handcuffs” effect—feeling tied to a job because of the valuable benefit
• Impact of job loss on child care arrangements
• Limited availability/capacity in on-site facilities
• Equity concerns as these benefits are not universally available

Cost and Access:

Access to employer-sponsored child care benefits is relatively limited in the U.S. As of March 2024, only about 14% of full-time private industry workers had access to such benefits. This figure is higher for those in high-salaried positions (nearly 30% in 2020) compared to the overall workforce.

The cost of establishing and operating an on-site child care center can be substantial, potentially ranging from $1 million to $3 million for construction alone. When employers do offer on-site care or subsidies, they might cover a portion of the tuition, ranging from 20% up to 100%, or offer care at a low flat rate.

Navigating Financial Assistance for Child Care

The cost of child care is a significant financial challenge for many families across the United States. It frequently ranks as one of the largest household expenses, often consuming a greater portion of a family’s budget than housing, food, or even college tuition.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) suggests that child care is affordable when it costs no more than 7% of a family’s income; however, many American families report spending considerably more—on average, about 22% of their household income on child care costs, according to a 2024 Care.com report.

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF)

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) is the cornerstone of federal efforts to make child care more affordable for families with low incomes and to enhance the quality of child care services for all children.

Purpose and Eligibility:

The CCDF is the primary federal funding source that provides money to states, territories, and tribal governments. These entities then use these funds to administer child care assistance programs that help eligible families pay for child care.

This assistance enables parents to work, attend school, or participate in job training programs, while also promoting the healthy development and learning of their children.

Federal eligibility rules for CCDF assistance generally require that:

• The child receiving care must be under age 13 (or under age 19 if the child has a disability or is under court supervision)
• The family’s income must be below 85% of the State Median Income (SMI) for a family of the same size
• The child’s parents must be working or actively searching for work, or participating in approved education or training activities

It’s crucial to understand that while these are the federal guidelines, states have considerable flexibility to set their own specific income eligibility thresholds, establish co-payment amounts, and define other criteria.

The benefits of CCDF assistance are primarily delivered through subsidies (vouchers or certificates) that families can use to pay for child care from an eligible provider of their choice, including centers, family child care homes, and sometimes relative care.

A key goal of recent federal rule changes is to make family co-payments more affordable. States are now required to cap family co-payments at no more than 7% of the family’s income and are encouraged to waive co-payments altogether for very low-income families or those with children who have special circumstances.

Finding and Applying for Assistance:

Families typically apply for child care subsidies through their state or local department of social services, human services, or a specifically designated child care agency. A primary starting point for finding the correct agency and information is ChildCare.gov.

The general application process often involves:

1. Submitting an application (online, by mail, or in person)
2. Potentially completing an interview
3. Providing required documentation

Typical documents required often include:

• Proof of residency
• Proof of income for all working household members
• Proof of child’s age, identity, and citizenship/legal residence
• Proof of work, school enrollment, or training program participation
• Child’s immunization records
• Other situation-specific documents

Once an application and all required documentation are submitted, the agency will review the information to determine eligibility. If the family is found eligible and funds are available, the agency will typically authorize child care with an approved provider chosen by the family.

Other Financial Supports

In addition to CCDF subsidies, several other programs and provisions can help families manage the cost of child care or provide broader financial support:

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): States can use a portion of their TANF funds to support child care services for eligible low-income families.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Considerations: Families can deduct dependent care expenses from their gross income when applying for SNAP, potentially increasing their benefit amount.

Federal Tax Credits:

• Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC): Available to individuals who paid expenses for the care of a qualifying child to enable them to work or look for work
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): A refundable federal tax credit for low to moderate-income working individuals and families

Head Start and Early Head Start: Comprehensive early childhood programs available at no cost to eligible families with low incomes.

State-Funded Prekindergarten (Pre-K) Programs: Many states offer public pre-K programs for children aged 3 to 5, often at low or no cost to eligible families.

Employer-Provided Assistance: Some employers offer child care benefits such as on-site child care, subsidies, or Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.

Military Child Care Assistance: The Department of Defense offers various child care programs and fee assistance for eligible military families.

Local and Provider-Specific Assistance: Some local non-profit organizations or individual child care providers may offer scholarships, sliding fee scales, or discounts.

Tribal Child Care Financial Assistance: Many Tribes and Tribal organizations receive federal grants to provide child care financial assistance to eligible Tribal families.

Families are encouraged to explore all these avenues. Information on state-specific financial assistance programs can typically be found by selecting a state or territory on ChildCare.gov and reviewing the “Financial Assistance for Families” and “Child Development and Early Learning Resources” pages.

Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.