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What are the child care options in Alabama?

The child care choices in Alabama are:

  1. Child Care Centers
  2. Day Care Group Homes
  3. Family Day Care Homes
Child Care Centers are businesses or organizations where caregivers watch over thirteen (13) or more children. These businesses must be licensed to operate by the state of Alabama unless they have a special exemption (such a church sponsored center). Even organizations that are exempt may choose to be licensed.

Day Care Group Homes are smaller than Child Care Centers (no more than twelve children). These businesses must have at least two caregivers and must be licensed.

Family Day Care Homes are smaller even operations that typically operate at the caregiver's home. In these cases, one caregiver may care for no more than six children. Although these are more informal they still require a license to operate.