Child care is the supervision and care provided to children, typically from infancy through early adolescence, when their parents or guardians are unavailable due to work, education, or other responsibilities. It involves ensuring the child’s safety, well-being, and development through age-appropriate activities, meals, emotional support, and learning opportunities.
Child care can be provided in various settings, including:
Daycare centers
In-home care by a nanny or babysitter
Family child care homes (care in the provider’s home)
Preschools or early childhood education centers
After-school programs
High-quality child care supports a child’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development and plays an important role in preparing them for school and life.