When deciding on child care one of the first choices that parents must make is choosing a smaller, in residence child care provider or a larger, more structured type of child care. Each has both benefits and drawbacks that are unique to the various types of settings. Hours that you need child care will also be a determining factor in this decision.

There is a wide range of prices and costs for child care depending on the hours or supervision required, they type of service provide, the needs of the child and the average cost of child care for the area. There is often a strong correlation between price and service, but this is not always the case so careful shopping around is important.

Always ask for references when considering the child care facility or individual child care provider. Agencies and child care providers should be prepared for this request and should have no difficulty in providing names or contact information for parents that have agreed to give references.