Finding Childcare

Caring for a baby or young child is a big job. Good childcare gives you as a parent the time you need to work, rest, or handle other needs—allowing you to be a better provider and caregiver. It also helps kids grow, learn, and feel safe.

Paid Parental Leave

You and your family members may qualify for paid time off after birth to care for your baby.

Learn more about Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) in Massachusetts

When You Cannot Be There

It is hard to even think about leaving your new baby when you have just given birth. But if you need to go back to work or have other responsibilities, there are options that help ensure your baby is cared for safely and lovingly until you can get back to them.

Ask Your Support Circle

Talk with family, grandparents, and friends who may be able to help care for your baby. Even short breaks or part-time support can make a huge difference—especially during the first few months, when babies need round-the-clock care.

Find a Reliable, Licensed Provider Near You

Look for childcare close to home or where you work. You can choose:

A daycare center with group programs for infants and toddlers
A licensed home childcare center, run by trained early-childhood educators
A sitter or nanny, in your home or theirs

Things to Think About

How long it will take to get there
What time you will need to drop off and pick up your baby
What days they close, or go on vacation
What they provide or what you have to pack. Some childcare providers include diapers, formula, or lunch in their cost, while for others, you need to pack those things for your own baby.
What their sick policy is. Babies and toddlers often get common colds and other minor illnesses. Some home providers, nannies, or sitters will care for a sick baby, but most group care settings like centers require sick children to stay home.

The Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) offers a list of licensed daycare providers.

Find EEC-Approved Childcare

The United Way program Mass 211 can help families identify and locate childcare programs across Massachusetts. Visit their website or call 211 to be connected to an advisor who can help you find programs in your area and, if you qualify, add you to a waitlist for income-based financial assistance.

Make Contact

Once you get a list of childcare centers and providers that will work for your location and schedule, you will still need to call the individual centers directly to find out if they have open spots. Start exploring your options as early as you can, because many centers are full or have long waitlists!

When it gets closer to your start date, check in with the provider you chose to confirm they are still expecting your baby and go through what supplies you will need to bring.

Help with Daycare Costs

State Financial Assistance

You may qualify for financial assistance to help pay for childcare in a daycare center or licensed home setting. Ask your care team or social worker to help you get connected.

Head Start

Head Start and Early Head Start are programs that provide free or low-cost care and learning for children from birth to age five. Head Start is for 3 and 4-year-old children. Early Head Start is for children younger than 3, but it may not be available in all communities. These programs support early learning, health, and family well-being.

Find Head Start Programs Near You