Home Daycare Guide 2026: What to Look For
Complete guide to home daycares in 2026. How to evaluate family childcare and find quality home-based care.
Home daycares offer intimate, family-like settings. Know what to look for in quality home-based care.
Licensing Status
| Type | Description | |------|-------------| | Licensed | Meets state requirements | | Registered | Less regulated | | Unlicensed | No oversight (legal limits vary) |
Quality Indicators
| Indicator | What to See | |-----------|-------------| | Safe environment | Childproofed, clean | | Engaged provider | Warm, attentive | | Appropriate activities | Age-appropriate play | | Good communication | Responsive, open |
Questions to Ask
| Question | Why | |----------|-----| | How long in business? | Experience | | What's your backup plan? | Coverage when sick | | Who else is in the home? | Safety | | What's your training? | Qualifications | | What's a typical day? | Routine |
Advantages
| Advantage | Benefit | |-----------|---------| | Small groups | Individual attention | | Home-like | Comfortable setting | | Mixed ages | Natural grouping | | Flexibility | May accommodate | | Cost | Often lower |
Resources
Last updated: December 2025