Starting a new life in the United States is a big transition for the whole family. For Explorers arriving with children, one of the first questions may be: Who will take care of my child while I’m at work?
Finding childcare in a new country can feel overwhelming, especially when you are also adjusting to a new healthcare role, community and routine. Understanding your options of trusted providers and expected costs can make planning much easier.
Understanding the Cost of Childcare
Childcare can be a significant household expense in the United States. According to Child Care Aware of America, the national average annual price of childcare was $13,128 in 2024.
However, there is no single price you should expect to pay. Costs vary considerably by state, your child’s age, the type of care you select, and how frequently you need it.
Child Care Aware of America provides an interactive map where families can explore average childcare prices by state. Reviewing costs in your area can help you create a realistic family budget.
Know Your Childcare Options
There are several types of childcare available in the U.S., so finding the right fit may depend on your child’s age, your budget, and your work schedule.
Daycare centers provide care in dedicated facilities, typically with children divided into age groups and established staff-to-child ratios.
Family childcare homes provide care to smaller groups of children from a caregiver’s residence.
Nannies provide individual care in your home and may offer greater flexibility. Some families use a nanny share, where two or more families share the same nanny and divide the cost.
Preschools provide structured learning opportunities, typically for children ages 3 to 5.
For school-age children, before-school, after-school, and summer programs may be available through their school or organizations such as the YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs.
Think About Your Healthcare Schedule
Healthcare professionals may have childcare needs that look different from families working traditional business hours.
If you work evenings, nights, weekends, or longer shifts, a traditional daycare center may not cover all the hours you need. When researching providers, ask specifically about early morning, evening, weekend, and nontraditional-hour care.
Starting your search early can give you more time to compare options and create a backup plan for schedule changes.
Finding Safe, Licensed Childcare
Choosing someone to care for your child is a major decision.
Childcare.gov is a helpful place to begin. Every state and U.S. territory has a childcare consumer education website where parents can search for licensed and regulated childcare providers in their area.
When evaluating a provider, consider its licensing status, staff background checks, adult-to-child ratios, and safety procedures. Visiting a provider and asking questions can also help you determine whether the environment feels right for your child.
A Few U.S. Rules Parents Should Know
As you settle into life in the United States, remember that laws involving children can differ from one state to another.
Leaving children home alone: There is no single federal minimum age for leaving a child home alone. Some states establish specific ages, while others consider factors such as the child’s maturity and circumstances. Always check the rules where you live before leaving a child without adult supervision.
School attendance: Every state has compulsory education requirements. The age children must begin attending school varies by state, generally beginning between ages 5 and 7, with attendance typically required until age 16 to 18.
Working as a minor: Federal child labor rules generally establish 14 as the minimum age for most nonagricultural employment, although different rules and exceptions can apply depending on age and type of work.
Start Planning Early
Finding childcare may take some research, but you do not have to figure everything out at once.
Start by considering your child’s age, your work schedule, your location, and what your family can comfortably budget. Then use your state’s official childcare resources to compare licensed options near you.
Your family’s needs may also change as you become more settled in your community. The childcare arrangement that works during your first few months may look different once your children begin school or your family’s routine changes.
Building a life in the United States involves more than starting a new healthcare career. For Explorer parents, it also means creating a routine where your family can feel safe, supported, and at home.