Childcare choices range from postpartum doulas and newborn care specialists to nannies, au pairs, mother's helpers, family child care homes and daycare centers. Match the option to your family's schedule and needs, verify credentials and background checks, and confirm local licensing or accreditation requirements before hiring.
Every family's childcare needs are different. Work schedules, number and ages of children, outside commitments and lifestyle shape the best choice. Below are common options parents use today, with practical notes on what each typically provides.
Doulas and Postpartum Support
Doulas provide emotional and practical support before, during and after birth. A birth doula focuses on labor support; a postpartum doula helps new parents at home with newborn care, breastfeeding support, light household tasks and sibling care. Postpartum doulas are not medical providers but they offer hands-on help and guidance to ease the transition to family life.
Newborn Care Specialists and Postpartum Nurses
Newborn care specialists (sometimes called night nannies or newborn specialists) are experienced caregivers who handle overnight feedings, soothing and sleep routines. "Postpartum nurse" or "maternity nurse" is used in some regions to describe clinically trained providers who may support breastfeeding and newborn health in early weeks. Check credentials, references and whether they provide infant CPR and safe-sleep guidance.
Nannies (Live-in and Live-out)
Nannies provide ongoing, personalized childcare in your home. Live-in nannies are a longer-term option if you need extensive daily support. Nannies' responsibilities vary by agreement and can include everything from infant care to school-run logistics. Ask about certifications (CPR/First Aid), experience and employment terms.
Au Pairs and Cultural Exchange
Au pairs are younger adults, often from other countries, who live with a host family and provide childcare in exchange for room, board and a stipend. This is a cultural exchange program with limits on working hours and typically suits families who want flexible, affordable childcare plus language and cultural exposure for children.
Mother's Helper
A mother's helper (mother's aide) is an entry-level assistant who supports household tasks and basic child supervision under a parent's direction. They're a good fit when you want supervision for older infants and toddlers while remaining directly involved in care.
Family Child Care (Home-based) and Childminders
Family child care providers (also called childminders in some countries) care for a small group of children in a home setting. These providers often offer consistent, family-style care and should meet local licensing and background-check requirements.
Daycare Centers and Preschools
Daycare centers and preschools serve children from infants through preschool age. Look for licensed programs and, where relevant, recognized accreditations (for example, NAEYC in the United States). High-quality centers combine safe care with early learning activities and follow staff-to-child ratio rules required by state or national regulators.
How to Choose
Decide what you need (overnight help, daily care, early learning). Check qualifications, references, background checks and infant CPR/First Aid. Clarify schedules, pay and household rules in writing. Because licensing and regulations vary by state and country, confirm local rules before hiring.