Family Child Care Homes
A family child care home is a setting in which several children are cared for in the provider’s home. Some are licensed and regulated; others are not. Every state sets its own standards. Some operate on a small, informal basis with just one caregiver, while others employ paid helpers. Such an arrangement may offer your child a home-like environment, along with an opportunity to socialize with other children. Depending on the caregiver/child ratio, your child may also receive more individualized attention than a larger child care center can provide and you may find more flexibility in the hours of operation.

Child Care Centers
Generally, child care centers provide care for groups of children in facilities specifically designed for children. Centers are licensed by the state and must meet state standards for child/staff ratios, teacher training and group size. Centers offer broader social exposure than most other options, and some centers have carefully structured curricula. You may have to work around inflexible hours and inconvenient holiday closings that don’t fit your work schedule.

If you are fortunate enough to work for a company that provides child care on the premises, your problem may be easily solved. You don’t have to plan for the extra mileage to and from another location, the center is open the same days you work and, most importantly, you have immediate access to your child should an emergency arise—or if you just want to have lunch with your little one. Although you still have to pay for the center’s services, if your company subsidizes the center, your cost may be lower. Be sure to put corporate child care centers to the same test you would any other. No matter where the center is or what the costs, you want to be sure your child is getting high–quality care.

Keep in mind that many child care centers and family child care homes won’t care for children who are ill. It’s important to ask about sick care policies and have a plan for alternatives if your child is sick.

In-Home Care
This type of child care may be harder to locate and cost more than the options discussed so far. However, parents may prefer to pay a caregiver or nanny to come into their home, or even an au pair to live in their home, and care for their child. If you find someone who truly enjoys this type of work, your child can get the ultimate in individualized attention. A familiar environment and a comfortable routine may offer more security to your child. An in-home caregiver may even take your child to piano lessons, soccer practice or library story hour.

There’s also the convenience factor. If you work irregular hours or have to travel frequently, an in-home caregiver may be able to work around your schedule. It’s a lot easier for you to get out the door in the morning if you don’t have to pack up your child for a trip to a child care center. And you don’t have to worry about backup arrangements for a sick child.

You will, however, pay for the convenience of quality in-home child care. Depending on the area, it is usually more costly than a child care center or family child care home. Not only do you have to pay a salary, but you also must follow the rules that apply to all employers regarding minimum wage, unemployment, Social Security and other applicable taxes. Filling out forms and keeping track of these things can be time consuming. You also need to check with your insurance company about liability coverage on your homeowners and auto policies to make sure it is adequate. Finally, keep in mind that you are totally dependent on your caregiver’s state of health and personal plans. Finding a backup if that person is ill or quits unexpectedly isn’t always easy.