Before you start looking at child care options, it might be helpful to learn about the different types of care available in your community. These will vary in program size, type of physical environment (home vs classroom setting), hours available, etc.

Some options that might be available are:

• Child Care Centers – providing care in group, classroom settings
• Family Child Care Centers – providing care in a private home setting
• In-Home Child Care/Nanny – often a private contract developed between parents and an individual caregiver 
• Family, Friend or Neighbor Caregiver – often a family member, such as a grandparent, that cares for a child (For additional information about this option and resources available for the caregiver click here.)
• Head Start and Early Head Start – federally funded programs that promote school readiness (for families that meet eligibility criteria)
• School-age Child Care Programs – also called out-of-school or after-school care, this can be an extension of a school program or in a community-based setting
• Pre-Kindergarten Programs – serving children typically between the ages of 3-5 years old, these programs are typically only open during typical school hours

With a decision as important as this, you need to feel comfortable with your choice and confident that your child is in a safe and caring environment.

Licensing is the main way the government regulates child care. States set minimum child care licensing requirements to ensure children stay healthy and safe while they are in care. Not all child care options are licensed, so it is important to check to see if the child care program you are considering is licensed.

Child care is a major expense for families, especially when there is more than one child needing care. For information about programs that you can access to help you pay for a portion of your child care cost, call a Child Care Navigator at our office at (336) 245-4900 or email [email protected].

A more detailed list of options can be found in our Resources for Families with Young Children online brochure.

There are many out-of-school or after-school programs available to parents. Programs can either be private companies or part of the school system. Some programs also offer summer options. To speak with a Child Care Navigator about these options, call our office at (336) 245-4900 or email [email protected].

For additional information: Child Care in North Carolina Tool Kit

School-aged children are typically within the age range of 5 to 13.