Be Prepared

The time you take to find the right care for your child will be time well spent. Organize your search by first considering questions about:

  • Your needs and those of your child:  Do you need child care close to home or close to your place of employment? What time of day or season of the year do you need care? Does your child have special needs? Do you need financial assistance?

  • What to look for:  Do you like the home-like feel of a family child care home or do you prefer a child care center?  Do you need before or after school care?  Are you looking for a summer camp program?   

Your child’s age will also be a factor in deciding what type of child care setting is right for your child. Use the links below for age-specific information.


How old is your child?

Infant  |  Toddler  |  Preschooler  |  School Age


Search Child Care Options

Search our online database on your own, email your request or call us to speak with a resource specialist. 

Take the Time

Choosing Child Care and Early Learning Experiences
Use these checklists and guides to help you make your child care and early learning decisions.

Quality Assurance

Action for Children's consumer services are Quality Assured by the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies. more

More . . .

Step Up To Quality
Information for providers and parents about Ohio's new voluntary three-star quality rating system.

Ohio's Infant and Toddler Guidelines
A new resource for parents and early childhood professionals.