Find the Perfect Daycare for Your Child

Free guides, cost calculators, and a directory of licensed daycares to help you make the best childcare decision.

Free comprehensive guides
Interactive calculators
Licensed facilities only

Everything You Need to Find Great Daycare

From research to decision, we've built the tools and resources parents actually need.

Daycare Directory

Browse licensed daycares by location with detailed information on programs, hours, and contact details.

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Cost Calculators

Plan your budget with our daycare cost calculator, work vs stay-home analysis, and more.

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Expert Guides

From choosing the right daycare to preparing for the first day—comprehensive guidance for every step.

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Free Daycare Calculators

Make informed financial decisions with our interactive tools.

Daycare Cost Calculator

Estimate monthly and annual daycare costs based on your location and child's age.

Childcare Budget Planner

Plan your family budget with childcare expenses factored in.

Work vs Stay Home Calculator

Compare the financial impact of working versus staying home with your child.

Daycare Guides

In-depth guides to help you navigate every step.

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Parent visiting a daycare center
12 min read

How to Choose the Right Daycare

A comprehensive guide covering licensing, safety, curriculum, and the questions every parent should ask.

Calculator and financial planning
8 min read

Daycare Costs Explained

Understand what you'll pay, what's included, and how to budget for quality childcare.

Happy child with backpack ready for school
10 min read

Preparing Your Child for Daycare

Tips and strategies to make the transition smoother for both you and your little one.

Our Mission

Finding quality childcare is one of the most important—and stressful—decisions parents make. We created DaycarePath to make that process easier and more transparent. Our goal is simple: provide the most comprehensive, honest, and helpful daycare resources on the internet.

Licensed Only

We only list licensed and verified daycare facilities.

Parent-Focused

Every resource is designed with busy parents in mind.

Always Free

Our guides and calculators are 100% free to use.

Frequently Asked Questions About Daycare

Get answers to the most common questions parents have about finding and choosing childcare.

Daycare costs vary significantly by location, age of child, and type of care. On average, infant care costs $1,000-$2,500/month, while preschool costs $800-$1,800/month. Use our free cost calculator to get estimates for your specific area.
Key factors include: licensing and accreditation status, staff-to-child ratios, caregiver qualifications, safety measures, curriculum approach, cleanliness, and your child's comfort during visits. Always verify the provider's license with your state's licensing agency.
Most experts agree that children can start daycare as early as 6 weeks to 3 months, though many parents prefer to wait until 6-12 months. The 'best' age depends on your family's needs, your child's temperament, and the quality of care available.
Use our free daycare directory to search by ZIP code. We only list licensed providers and include contact information, program types, and links to verify licenses with state agencies.
Yes! Most states offer childcare assistance programs (often called CCAP or Child Care Subsidy) for income-eligible families. Additionally, the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit can offset up to $3,000-$6,000 in childcare expenses. Check our state-specific guides for details.
Daycare centers are commercial facilities caring for larger groups with multiple staff. Family childcare homes are operated in the provider's residence with smaller group sizes (typically 6-12 children). Both must be licensed and meet state safety standards.

Ready to Find the Right Daycare?

Start your search today with our directory, guides, and calculators—all free.

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