Evaluating child care options at least one year before you need the service, particularly for infant care, allows parents to return to work more quickly, says Christine Koh, founder and editor of BostonMamas.com and MinimalistMama.com.

“There are less infant-care options available compared to preschools,” Koh says. “So, I toured and then got wait-listed at several day cares but also worked out alternatives to fill in the gaps on the fly.”

To ease your own child care search after you’ve determined a convenient location and budget, Koh suggests asking these questions of the caregiver you are considering:

1. May I see proof that you are properly licensed as a child caregiver in your state, city and county, if applicable?
2. What are your staff credentials, safety and health protocols?
3. Are you flexible enough to accommodate my work schedule?
4. What's your child-to-teacher ratio, and what kind of socialization or age-appropriate activities do you offer?
5. How realistic is it to put my child on your waiting list, and do you require a reservation payment?