It can also help a child develop confidence, creativity, co-ordination, problem-solving skills and healthy relationships with other children.

Most important, it has caring adults who relate well to children and who are concerned about the well-being of children.

Most parents are confused and uncertain when it comes to choosing child care. Finding high quality, convenient and affordable care is an ever-present concern.

There are a number of options to choose from.

Child Care Centres

• A child care centre is a licensed facility providing care to four or more children in a place other than a family home.
• The staff/child ratio for child care centres is 1:4 for infants; 1:6 for preschoolers over 18 months of age and 1:8 for preschoolers over age three.

Family Day Homes

• A family day home is child care provided by an individual in a family home environment.
• A day home may provide care to four infant; six preschoolers where not more than three are infants or eight preschool children 18 months or older.
• A family day home providing care to three or fewer children is not required by law to be licensed but does have that option.
• A home caring for four or more children must be licensed.

When you're choosing child care for your child, look at your options and call around. Visit a number of homes or centres to see what they are like. A list of licensed facilities is available from Child Care Services Unit.