You're thinking ahead — and that's one of the best things you can do for your family. Browse these sections at your own pace. A care expert is always available when you're ready to talk.
The childcare sector was already on an unsustainable path before 2020. There are now 100,000 fewer childcare workers than before the pandemic (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Advance planning, persistence, and patience will serve you well.
Home-based daycare, center-based daycare, or a private nanny — each comes with different costs, hours, and features. Use the comparison chart to evaluate which fits your family.
Several search tools can help you find accredited and vetted providers in your area, filterable by price, location, hours, and ages served.
If you're considering a private caregiver, a nanny placement agency handles vetting and matching. Review the pros and cons, then use the agency directories to find one near you.
Employing a nanny qualifies you as a household employer. You become responsible for Social Security and Medicare taxes. A tax service for domestic employees can help manage this.
After-school programs, summer camps, and enrichment activities are both a childcare solution and a developmental investment. Research from the Harvard Graduate School of Education shows participation improves academic performance and school engagement.
School-based and community programs usually mirror the local school calendar. The YMCA has a nationwide search tool — most branches offer before and after-school programs, and sometimes provide transportation to select elementary schools.
If you're planning on sending a child to camp, consider four things: age readiness (5–6 year olds do well if they're comfortable in group settings), your child's interests, the setting (day camp, residential, virtual), and budget. The average daily cost is $178 per child for day camp and $448 for overnight camp (ACA survey).
If your child has special needs, look for programs with trained staff, appropriate accommodations, and experience with your child's specific requirements. Ask about staff-to-child ratios and individualized support plans.
Infant and toddler care is significantly more expensive than preschool-age care. In some states, childcare costs make up more than 30% of a family's income. Here's how to understand and manage the costs.
Costs vary dramatically by region, child's age, and care type. Use these tools to see what families in your area typically pay.
Your Dependent Care Account (DCA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) lets you use pre-tax dollars for childcare. A Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP / DCFSA) may also be available through your employer. Check your company's benefits portal.
Three credits may apply to your family: the Child Tax Credit (per qualifying child), the Dependent Care Credit (reimburses up to half of childcare costs while working), and the Earned Income Tax Credit for lower-income households.
Military and DoD families may qualify for childcare subsidies. Programs vary by branch. Search the Military Child Care site for DoD-approved options, and explore fee assistance through Child Care Aware.
Whether you're evaluating a new provider or reassessing your current arrangement, these tools help you ask the right questions and verify quality.
NAEYC accreditation means a program has met 10 standards for high-quality early childhood education. Use the search tool to verify if a program is accredited — and know that many quality programs choose not to pursue accreditation.
Licensed programs have continual monitoring for health and safety standards. Findings are reflected in state reports. Use the inspection tips to find reports for your state and understand how to read them.
Use the suggested questions checklist when calling or visiting a daycare to make sure you receive answers to all the key information about safety, qualifications, policies, and daily routines.
When interviewing a nanny agency, use the suggested questions and tips to evaluate their screening process, replacement policies, and how they handle issues.
Childcare changes are inevitable but can be stressful. Whenever you're switching providers, the transition tips can help make the change smoother for your child.
Free services, search tools, and organizations that can help you find and evaluate childcare.
The most comprehensive source of locally curated social services. Free, available 24/7 by phone, chat, or text. Covers 94.6% of the U.S. population. Can connect you to childcare resources, financial assistance, and family support services in your area.
A not-for-profit website with a database of area-specific childcare resources. Filter by your criteria to find providers, programs, and support services near you.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children maintains a searchable directory of accredited childcare centers and preschools nationwide.
Nationwide search tool for before and after-school enrichment programs. Most branches offer programs, and some provide transportation to select elementary schools.
Connect with a care expert who's guided hundreds of families through moments like yours.