Home-based care
Home-based care is one of the types of child care families can choose. Home-based care is also referred to as family home or child care home.
Here are some things to know about most home-based child care:
- care for children of many ages
- have smaller groups of children, often in same room
- usually offer part-time and full-time care
- children are cared for in provider’s home
- siblings may stay together instead of being separated by age
- may offer more flexible hours
- Health and Human Resources Commission Child Care Regulation (HHSC CCR) makes sure they follow health and safety rules
- usually cost less than child care centers
These descriptions give a general idea of each type of child care, but programs can be different. Families should contact providers directly to learn the details and see if the care fits their child’s needs.
Learn about other types of child care
A child care center is a place where many kids are cared for by trained adults. They usually have classrooms and take care of children of different ages. Children are usually separated by age groups.
Public prekindergarten (Pre-k) is a free program for eligible children ages 3 to 5 (where it’s offered). It is available through the public school system. Pre-k helps kids get ready for school by learning important skills.
Early Head Start helps children from birth to 3 years old, and pregnant women. Head Start helps children ages 3 to 5. Both programs offer free services and child development support for families who qualify.
School-age and summer camps are for children who are in school, usually ages 5 to 12. These programs may take care of kids before and after school, on school breaks, and during the summer.
Military families can use regular child care programs, and they may also qualify for special programs made just for them. These programs can help with finding care and may lower the cost.
Relative child care is when a relative family member takes care of a child, usually in their own home but sometimes in the child’s home. Only certain relatives can provide this care. The relative must pass background checks, have their home inspected, and be listed with HHSC CCR.