Child care (or day care) involves the supervision and care of children, typically from three months to 10–12 years old, provided by caregivers other than the parents, and is a crucial component of early child development. It encompasses a wide spectrum of settings, including in-home care (nannies, au pairs, or extended family), center-based care (crèches, daycare, preschools, and schools), and even orphanages or foster homes for those without familial caregiving. Professional caregivers in these institutions are usually required to have extensive first aid training, CPR certification, and pass background checks, with many facilities offering advanced early childhood education led by trained teachers. Access to and quality of childcare have long-term impacts on children's educational attainment, boost labor force attachment for mothers, and create economic benefits for immigrant communities and communities of color. Notably, in-home care requires no licensing or background checks, making parental vigilance essential, and while it is the highest-cost option per child, it can be more affordable for large families and fosters a close caregiver bond.