Best Age to Put Baby in Daycare? Everyone is Different, Mama

Lauren Hays

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP

Best Age to Put Baby in Daycare? Everyone is Different, Mama

Ready to go back to work or maybe have a day to yourself? Let’s talk daycare. Deciding when to put your child in daycare can feel like one of the biggest decisions you’ll make early on in parenthood. There’s a lot of noise talking about why it is or isn’t good for your child. Plus, it’s completely normal to feel torn between your other priorities and wanting to be there for every moment of your baby’s early life. Some moms worry about leaving their little one too soon, while others feel excited for the support that a childcare center can provide. The truth is, there’s no “right” answer. The best age to start daycare depends on your child, your family’s needs, and what feels best for you. You might also be considering, working from home with a baby, which can be successful if you have a plan and open communication with your partner/support system.

What Does the Research Show?

Research offers some insights into how different ages adjust to daycare, but every child and family dynamic is unique. Some studies suggest that children under 2 may experience more challenges with separation, but the reality is that many families rely on childcare early on. The key isn’t just age—it’s about finding a daycare that provides a nurturing, responsive environment that helps your child feel safe and secure. Here’s a breakdown of what research says about different age groups and how to support your child’s transition.

0-12 Months

For the first 12 months of age, babies need one-on-one attention. They should only spend time in safe, clean environments as their risk of illness is higher and more dangerous. There are centers that can provide this, but you’ll mostly be looking at in-home options like nannies.

Some studies have shown that there is a slight chance of worse behavioral and cognitive outcomes for children under 18 months. However, their findings also showed somewhat improved cognitive outcomes for children aged 18 months on, regardless of whether they started earlier. Also, these studies are on daycare centers, not consistent babysitting or other options. There is no firm answer on whether or not you should begin daycare before 1 year. It comes down to the caregiver quality, whether you and your baby have a secure attachment, and your child’s personality, which can be hard to judge at such a young age.

1-2 Years

There have been multiple studies on the effects of daycare on children when they are 1 to 2 years old. There are competing results, with some saying there is increased cognitive ability starting at age 1, while others conclude there is no real cognitive lift and starting that early comes with negative behavioral outcomes.

There is a general consensus, however, that age 2 is the sweet spot, and helps with child development, both socially and cognitively. Interaction with peers and the structured environment can help with language development and motor skills. This might be the right age if your child is more independent and generally open to new environments and people. Again, these studies don’t cover other forms of care, where a child may be at home.

3-4 Years

There are very few reported disadvantages to enrolling your child in daycare. Older children are much more likely to start learning problem-solving and social skills at this age. When children attend daycare starting at 4, it helps them prepare to start school. They learn skills like cooperation and tend to have stronger emotional development.

There is research that shows children of all ages have higher levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) during the separation process, which is somewhat unavoidable.

We know what you’re thinking – that doesn’t really answer the question. You’re right, it’s complicated and every person is different. Overall, research suggests that the quality of care matters more than the age at which children start daycare. Additionally, the amount of time spent in daycare each week can make a big difference. To get the benefits of daycare with fewer of the downsides, it’s recommended they spend between 15 and 30 hours per week.

Types of Daycare and When Can You Send Your Child to Each

There are a variety of daycare options both inside and outside the home. They’ll vary significantly in price, have different policies and benefits, and accept children starting anywhere from a few months old to 4 years old.

You may be surprised that many centers accept children as young as 6 weeks. The minimum age for child care depends on the type of care facility and its specific guidelines. Here are your options depending on how old your little one is.

Daycare Centers

This is the type of childcare center that most people imagine when they think of “daycare.” This type of child care tends to follow the same operating hours of traditional workplaces, and they’re likely to have strict drop-off and pick-up times. They accept children of a variety of ages, however, many have potty training requirements, so this is typically seen as a better option for older kiddos. There are some centers that can provide infant care, you’ll just have to check the facilities that are closest to you to find out.

In-home Daycares

If you’d like to avoid a corporate facility, you may look into private, in-home daycare. They operate in a similar manner to the KinderCares of the world but within a home environment. Additionally, they may have more built-in flexibility since they aren’t following a strict employee handbook and some are less expensive. Smaller, in-home childcare providers may have more flexible age requirements and policies, but each will be different. Some are able to care for babies starting at 6 weeks.

Co-op Child Care

This is an option for moms that are very active in their community or that have friends with similarly aged children. Basically, you create a schedule with other parents and trade off providing care from day to day. This can work especially well if you have a more flexible work schedule or are a stay-at-home mom. Age limits don’t really apply, as you and any other participating parents will set your own boundaries.

Nanny Share Programs

If you and your mom friends don’t have the time and energy for a co-op, but you want a similarly personalized childcare option, a babysitter share could be a good choice. This is where you work with an individual caregiver that splits their time across multiple families. It can be a cost-effective way to get some time to yourself a few hours a day or a few days a week. As far as age, obviously this will vary significantly from person-to-person, but these full-time professionals may be equipped to care for newborns.

Preschool

This is a type of early childhood education with a more structured environment than other forms of daycare. There are both private options and public programs offered through school districts. The cost varies but some are free. For example, in Colorado, 4 year olds automatically qualify for 15 hours per week of preschool. Preschool programs typically accept kids starting at 3 or 4 years old when they’re ready for structured learning and group activities.

How to Know if You and Your Child Are Ready

Every parent wonders if they’re truly ready to leave their child at daycare. While there’s no perfect formula, here are some signs that might help you decide:

SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE READY

Sometimes you don’t have that much choice in the matter, with maternity leave regulations only giving some women 6 weeks before they have to return to work. If this is you, we’ve got some advice on coping when preparing to go back to work.

Otherwise, here are some signs you’re ready to start daycare for part or all of the week.

You feel confident in your choice of daycare provider.
You’re ready to balance your personal or professional goals with childcare.
You trust that your baby will receive quality care and attention.
You feel emotionally prepared (even if a little nervous) to spend time away from your child.

SIGNS YOUR CHILD MIGHT BE READY

Thinking about a traditional daycare center, there are a few signs to look out for. If your child is independently and communicating at a basic level, they may be ready. Ideally, they’ll also be potty trained, follow a consistent eating and sleeping schedule, and able to understand basic instructions.

For in-home options, like a co-op or nanny, it’s more about how comfortable they are with new people and being away from you for a few hours. Again, independence is a great gauge to go by. Additionally, babies that are growing and developing well are more likely to adapt to other caregivers better.

Remember, readiness looks different for everyone. Trust your instincts—you know your family best.

Pros and Cons of Daycare

Daycare offers valuable support, but it does come with some downsides. It’s up to you and your partner to decide which of these situations apply to you and what you may be willing to overlook.

Benefits of Daycare

Besides the obvious benefits of getting some support during the day, Daycare can help with early child development in a number of ways:

Social skills
Routine and structure
Exposure to learning
Emotional development
Increased independence
Communication skills

What to Watch Out For

On the other hand, there are some downsides to most types of formal childcare. You’re trusting someone else with your baby, which is hard by default. Here are some other cons, some of which are avoidable:

Separation anxiety
Illness exposure
Expensive
Caregiver quality
Safety
Food options may not fit your personal preferences
Learned negative behaviors

How to Prepare Your Child for Daycare With Less Separation Anxiety

You know your child best, so if you think they may need a gentler adjustment period, (or maybe you do, which is OK mama!) here are some steps to take.

Start by visiting the facility together. Many traditional child care centers, schools, and even in-home daycares allow you to visit before enrolling. This helps you scope out safety features and the quality of care. Your child will get to familiarize themselves with the new environment and caregivers.

You can also start gradually. No one – unless you’re bound by a short maternity leave – says you have to dive in to full-time daycare. You can start with half days a couple times per week and increase the duration over time.

If you’re less worried about daycare itself, and more about separation anxiety here are some ways to lessen your and your baby’s stress levels:

Practice Separation: Spend short periods apart to help your baby adjust to being away from you.
Create a Goodbye Routine: Develop a consistent, loving goodbye ritual (like a hug, kiss, or special phrase). P.S. we have Mama and Me meditations in our app for these exact scenarios! Start your free trial to access!
Pack Comfort Items: Bring a favorite blanket, stuffed toy, or pacifier to help your baby feel secure.
Talk About Daycare: For older toddlers, talk positively about daycare to set an encouraging tone.
Stay in Touch: Check in with the caregivers or follow your daycare’s app if they have one.

CONCLUSION

Deciding when to send your child to daycare is a deeply personal decision. There’s no universal answer because every family, every baby, and every situation is unique. Whether you start at 6 weeks, 12 months, or 3 years, the most important thing is that you feel confident in your decision and your choice of childcare.

If you’re preparing to return to work after maternity leave and need guidance on the transition, we’ve got you covered. Grab our guide, “Returning to Work After Maternity Leave,” for expert-backed tips on making the process smoother—for both you and your baby. You’ve got this, mama—trust yourself!