Caring for Kids is a monthly article series by early childhood education experts in Child and Family Care and Children’s Centers.

Finding the right child care can feel overwhelming, but with a structured approach, you can navigate this crucial decision more smoothly. 

“Caring for children is complex and it can be challenging to keep up with all the programs and resources that are available federally, state-wide, and in the local community," says Christine Snyder, director of U-M Child and Family Care. "Receiving support in decision making, securing, and financing care options for children can reserve energy, time, and resources you can instead spend focusing on interacting and enjoying your time with your little ones.’

Here are five questions to consider when choosing child care:

What kind of care is right for me? 

Consider what type of care aligns with your lifestyle and your child's personality. Do you need a full-time nanny, a family child care home, or a child care center? If your child is school-aged, after-school programs may be suitable. Think about the hours and flexibility you need, as well as the environment where your child will thrive. 

For more information about finding the right fit, explore these resources:

• Choosing Quality Child Care
• How Do I Find and Choose Quality Child Care? | Childcare.gov 
• Choosing Quality Child Care 
• Choosing a Child Care Center - HealthyChildren.org 

What support can I get from my workplace and community? 

U-M offers many child care resources for our university community. The newest support is a partnership with Bright Horizons for low-cost backup care option for eligible faculty and staff.   If your partner is employed elsewhere, check with them to see if childcare assistance programs or discounts are available. Additionally, faith organizations and community centers often provide affordable or supplemental childcare services. These can be valuable resources, particularly during school breaks or summer.

What financial resources do I need and qualify for? 

When figuring out how much money you'll need for childcare, start by checking out the different types of support you might be eligible for. Look into government assistance programs, which can offer financial help to cover some of the costs. Don't forget to explore tax credits that might be available to you, like the Child and Dependent Care Credit, which can save you some serious cash come tax time. Also, see if any local community resources, such as childcare centers with sliding-scale fees, can help reduce costs based on your income.

It's a good idea to do some detailed research on these options to see what fits best with your situation. And if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed, consider chatting with a financial advisor to see if they can help you explore options. 

For more information about supplemental care, explore these resources:

• State of Michigan’s Child Care Assistance
• Michigan: Financial Assistance Resources for Families | Childcare.gov 
• Help Paying for Child Care 
• Free and Low Cost Child Care - Great Start to Quality

What about other supplemental care needs? 

Beyond basic childcare, think about what extra services your child might need, such as medical care, dental check-ups, or tutoring. Some childcare centers offer integrated services or partnerships with nearby facilities. Additionally, planning ahead for activities like summer camp ensures a balanced schedule that supports both learning and enjoyment.

For more information about supplemental care, explore these resources: 

• Healthy Kids Dental Program
• Free & Reduced Fee Dental Programs in Michigan
• InsureKidsNow.gov
• MIChild
• Medicaid for Children - Washtenaw Health Project
• Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Eligibility Requirements | HealthCare.gov
• Build Up Michigan 
• The Family Learning Institute
• Targeting Support with Tutoring: A Strategy for Accelerated Learning

At what age does my child no longer need care? 

Typically, children no longer need formal childcare around ages 11-14, depending on maturity levels and your comfort. However, some parents opt for programs or supervision until their child reaches high school. Gauge your child's readiness for independence by observing their decision-making and responsibility levels.

For more information about when a child is ready to stay home alone, explore these resources: 

• Leaving Your Child Home Alone - Michigan 
• Summer vacation is approaching. Is your child ready to stay home alone? What to consider 

Use these questions to help inform childcare decisions that work for both your family’s dynamics and your child's development. Remember, planning for childcare might seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make it a lot easier!