When finding a Child Care provider for your child(ren), there are 3 different types of providers. 

• Licensed Family Child Care
• Licensed Child Care Center
• School District Program

Licensed Family Child Care

A Licensed Family Child Care is a type of childcare facility where a provider cares for a small group of children in their own home. These providers are typically licensed or regulated by the state or local government to ensure they meet specific health, safety, and educational standards. Here are some key characteristics of a Licensed Family Child Care:

• In-Home Setting: Licensed Family Child Care providers operate their businesses out of their own homes. This creates a more intimate and home-like environment for the children in their care.

• Small Group Size: Family Child Care providers typically care for a small group of children, often ranging from a few infants to a maximum of 12 or so children, depending on local regulations. This smaller group size allows for more individualized attention.

• Educational Activities: Licensed Family Child Care providers often incorporate educational and developmental activities into their daily routines to promote early childhood learning and development. These activities can include reading, art, music, and age-appropriate play.

• Flexible Hours: Family Child Care providers may offer flexible hours to accommodate the needs of working parents. Some may provide care during evenings, weekends, or even overnight.

• Parental Involvement: Parents often have a close and ongoing relationship with Family Child Care providers, as the smaller group size allows for more direct communication and involvement in their child's care.

• Lower Cost: Family Child Care can be more affordable than larger childcare centers because the overhead costs are typically lower, and providers may charge lower rates

Licensed Child Care Center

A Licensed Child Care Center is a formal childcare facility that is licensed or regulated by the state or local government to provide care and supervision for a group of children. These centers are designed to offer a safe, structured, and educational environment for children while their parents or guardians are at work, school, or engaged in other activities. Here are some key characteristics of a Licensed Child Care Center:

• Professional Staff: Child Care Centers employ trained and qualified staff members who have typically undergone background checks, have relevant education and experience in early childhood development, and may hold certifications in CPR and first aid.

• Structured Programs: Child Care Centers often offer structured and age-appropriate educational programs and activities that are designed to promote the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of children in their care. These programs may include art, music, physical activities, and pre-academic skills.

• Safety Measures: Centers are required to have safety measures in place, such as fire drills, secure entry and exit points, and safety protocols for handling emergencies.

• Regular Inspections: Regulatory agencies conduct regular inspections of Licensed Child Care Centers to ensure they continue to meet licensing requirements and maintain a safe and healthy environment for children.

• Nutritional Services: Many Child Care Centers provide meals and snacks that meet dietary guidelines. They often accommodate children with allergies or dietary restrictions.

• Full-Day or Part-Day Care: Child Care Centers may offer full-day or part-day care options to accommodate parents' work schedules.

School District Program 

A School District Program in child care typically refers to a childcare program or service offered by a local school district. These programs are often designed to provide childcare services to school-aged children, typically before or after school hours, during school holidays, and sometimes during the summer. The specific offerings and structure of these programs can vary from one school district to another, but here are some common features:

• Before and After School Care: Many school district programs offer before and after school care for children whose parents or guardians work during typical school hours. These programs provide a safe and supervised environment for children before school starts in the morning and after it ends in the afternoon.

• School Holidays and Breaks: School district programs may extend their services to cover school holidays, such as winter break, spring break, and other non-school days. This helps working parents ensure that their children are cared for during these times.

• Summer Programs: Some school districts run summer childcare programs to provide care for children when schools are closed for the summer vacation. These programs often include educational and recreational activities.

• Homework Assistance: Many school district childcare programs offer homework assistance or tutoring to help children with their school assignments and promote academic success.

• Recreational and Enrichment Activities: These programs may include recreational activities, sports, arts and crafts, and other enrichment activities to keep children engaged and provide a well-rounded experience.

• Nutritional Services: Some programs offer snacks or meals to ensure that children have access to nutritious food during their time in the program.

• Safety and Supervision: School district programs prioritize the safety and supervision of children, often adhering to state and local regulations regarding child-to-staff ratios and safety protocols.