McKesson Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 2002.1

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Characteristics:

• Child care is provided in an organized group setting away from home.
• Child usually must be at least two years old and toilet trained. (A few accept infants.)
• Most serve children 3 to 5 years of age.
• May be commercial or sponsored by an organization.

Advantages:

• Usually has planned, formal program of activities and greater variety of play materials.
• Caregivers usually trained and experienced in child development.
• Licensing is required, ensuring minimum health and safety standards.
• Usually less expensive than in-home care.
• Your child receives the stimulation of other children.
• Generally open 12 hours per day year-round and full- or half-day schedules available (nursery schools usually open half-days and closed same months as regular school).
• Care is reliably available.
• Hot lunches usually provided.
• Caregivers are supervised directly.
• Usually has outdoor play area.

Disadvantages:

• Your child may be less comfortable in a formal group setting than in an informal home environment.
• May require year-round commitment even if your needs are irregular.
• May require a registration fee.
• May not be available in rural areas.
• Center hours and days may not suit your needs.
• Child cannot receive care if sick.
• Usually more expensive than family day care.
• Depending on ages, siblings may not be cared for together.