Word of mouth is the best way to find out about a family daycare setting. Other sources of information are referral agencies, churches, the United Way, and community groups. With the demand for daycare rising each year, the number of daycare centers is increasing. Some are privately owned, while others belong to a chain. Daycare centers may be government supported, connected with universities, or sponsored by companies.
Some daycare centers are co-ops connected with community agencies.
In a good daycare center, the workers have some training in child development, health, and safety. The director may have a graduate degree in child development. Good centers have planned educational programs, even for babies. There are some disadvantages, though. Babies are likely to pick up colds and other minor illnesses.