THE MERIT SCHOOL OF ARLINGTON (#69) — Child Daycare & Preschools in ARLINGTON, VA

According to nonprofit organization Child Care Aware, the average monthly cost of full-time daycare in the U.S. in 2020 was around $850.

On average, families who hire a private full-time nanny spend around $2,450 per month, according to a 2021 survey conducted by Care.com.

Those averages provide a ballpark range for childcare costs, but there's really no simple answer to this question. Nanny and daycare costs depend on a number of factors, including:

• Where you live
• What type of childcare you choose
• Your child's age
• How many hours a week your child spends in childcare

According to Statista, there are over 850,000 daycare centers in the US.

• Are they licensed?
• Do they meet the recommended infant-to-caregiver ratio? (ratio differs per state)
• Do they allow or encourage impromptu drop-in visits by parents?
• Do they have policies on things such as discipline, cleanliness, handwashing, hygiene, and what happens when a child is ill?
• Do they have staff members who are early childhood professionals? And are trained in CPR?
• What is their vaccination policy?
• How do they accommodate special diets or food allergies?
• Do they have a standard daily routine, play or educational initiative for the kids?

1. Family Child Care Homes
   A family childcare home is usually a residential building where one or two adult caregivers tend to a small number of kids within their surroundings. Care homes like this thrive on trust, are unlicensed and are based on referrals. If you’re very cautious of the health and safety standards, then this might not be the best option for you.
   This type of care is offered in the child or caregiver’s home by a friend, relative, neighbour, or babysitter. This type of care is exempt from regulations and doesn’t need to meet any health standards or training standards.
   A lot of people prefer this because it is informal, cheaper, or when these homes are run by friends, neighbors, or acquaintances.
   
2. Child Care Centers
   Child care centers are formal children care centers, with larger spaces, and numerous workers whose full-time work is to tend to the needs of all the kids at the center.
   A child care center can be owned by an individual, public school, religious facilities, or government agency. They also tend to be licensed and have several accreditations from different associations. A child care center is perfect if you’re looking for trusted professionals to attend to the basic, education and safety of your children.
   
3. Preschool Programs
   These facilities are for kids aged 3-5 years old. These programs can be offered through the school, faith-based organizations, or childcare centres. If you want to make your child school-ready, then a preschool program is just a perfect fit.
   
4. School-Age Programs
   These facilities offer pre, and after-school child care services. They also offer care services during long summer breaks and school holidays.