| If you are searching for options in Dallas day care or | | | | Head Start program. |
| child care in the area, there are a few different types | | | | A home-based program has the advantage of low |
| of care available. To assist you in understanding the | | | | numbers. The home environment offers better ratios |
| strengths and weaknesses of each system, you | | | | and thus an increased opportunity for each child to |
| should familiarize yourself with the different types of | | | | form a close bond with the caregiver. This type of |
| care programs available and what they have to offer. | | | | care can follow a more tailored curriculum, be lower in |
| Child Care Centers | | | | cost, and be more flexible for families than other types |
| Child care centers are regulated and may care for | | | | of care. |
| children from birth to 12 years of age. Full-time and | | | | Camps and After-School Care |
| part-time care is available. Some child care centers | | | | Camps and after-school care programs offer full-time |
| receive government funding. Such programs include | | | | and part-time care. They are able to offer a number |
| Early Head Start and Head Start. | | | | of indoor and outdoor activities, a primary advantage in |
| The advantages of this type of care revolve around | | | | this type of care. However, regulation is not required |
| the trained staff and business-like atmosphere. They | | | | in these programs; you should exercise more caution |
| provide a curriculum based upon principles of child | | | | when looking for camps and after-school care |
| development. Consistent hours of operation and year | | | | programs. |
| round care are available. | | | | In-Home Care (Nanny) |
| This type of care encourages children to interact with | | | | This type of care is also not regulated. Children are |
| others their own age. Some centers offer a parent | | | | cared for in the child’s home, and this type of care |
| involvement program other require parental | | | | allows you to keep your kids together and in a familiar |
| participation for a certain number of hours per year, | | | | place. |
| each center is different, so ask. | | | | The advantages of this type of care include personal |
| Registered Family Homes | | | | interactions which encourages a closer bond between |
| This type of care is regulated and offers full-time and | | | | child and caregiver. It can be less costly and |
| part-time care. Children from birth to 12 years of age | | | | accommodate flexible schedules better. The flexibility |
| are cared for in this environment. Also, some facilities | | | | makes this a better option for children with special |
| receive government funding if they provide an Early | | | | needs. |