Child care comes in several forms in California. Each type offers unique benefits and may better suit different family situations. This guide will help you understand your options so you can make the best choice for your child.
Licensed Child Care Options
Licensed Family Child Care Homes
- Operated in the provider's home
- Care for children in mixed-age groups
- Offer flexible scheduling options, including evenings and weekends
- Two types:
- Small homes: Up to 8 children
- Large homes: Up to 14 children (with an assistant)
Licensed Child Care Centers
- Located in commercial buildings
- Structured environment with multiple staff members
- Children typically grouped by age in separate classrooms
- Offer part-time or full-time care
- Multiple license types based on children's ages
- Regular state inspections and monitoring
License-Exempt Care Options
Family, Friend, and Neighbor Care
- Providers care for children from only one family besides their own
- Often takes place in the provider's or child's home
- No license required
- More informal and flexible arrangement
- Can be verified through TrustLine background check system
Other License-Exempt Programs
- Summer camps
- Centers on tribal land
- After-school programs
- Must follow specific regulations despite being license-exempt
How to Verify Provider Credentials
Licensed Providers
- Regulated by California Department of Social Services
- Must complete:
- Criminal background checks
- Required training
- Health and safety requirements
- Regular state inspections
- Records available through Community Care Licensing
TrustLine Verification
- Free background check service
- Call 1-800-822-8490 with provider's:
- Full name
- Driver's license number
Finding the Right Provider
Need help finding child care? You have two easy options:
- Visit mychildcareplan.org
- Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral Agency at 1-800-KIDS-793
Need more help? Our support team is available to answer your questions about finding the right type of care for your family.