Combining parenthood and a career can be quite a juggling act, and finding someone to care for your little one is of paramount importance. There are different types of childcare available in New York and finding a safe, reliable and licensed practitioner is vital. You need to be able to do your job knowing that your child is being taken care of, is happy and healthy. You, as the parent, know what is best for your child, and finding a warm, friendly environment requires some research.

The Bureau of Child Care provides a wealth of information and advice on childcare along with licensing and registration services for childcare workers. You should start looking a few months before the childcare needs to start, to give yourself time to check out what is available, and what would best suit you and your child’s needs.

Group Childcare

Any out of home childcare provider with seven or more children under the age of six years must hold a license obtained from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Child Care. There should be a minimum of one teacher and one assistant for each group of ten two year olds, fifteen three year olds and twenty four year old children.

Make sure to visit several childcare providers to compare the level of care and activities on offer. If your child has food allergies, ask if the day care provider can cater to their needs. Decide if you would prefer your childcare provider to be close to your home, to minimise travel time for your child, or near to your place of work, so you can pop in from time to time to check on your child, or perhaps go for lunch together. Some office buildings and corporations in New York City offer childcare facilities on site.

Group Childcare options include:

Day Care Centers care for more than six children.

Small Day Care Centers provide childcare for up to six children.

Group Family Day Care Homes provide childcare for between seven and twelve children in a home residence. Note that an assistant must be employed if there are more than six children.

Nannies

If you’re looking for a live in or live out Nanny, be sure to go to a reputable agency, where a full background check has been made and the Nanny has been professional screened. When checking out references call each one and also look into what qualifications the Nanny holds.