Taking your children to a mother who does babysitting out of her home is another alternative. It can be a licensed in-home daycare, or unlicensed one. The difference being that an unlicensed childcare provider is only allowed to have five children in her home including her own. A licensed provider would have to have someone come to their home and inspect it for the safety and well being of the children who would stay there. If you know someone who does babysitting in their home, but is unlicensed, chances are you would not be too concerned about leaving your child in that situation. If you are looking for in-home childcare, and it would be with someone you did not know, you will want to go with a licensed provider because of the fact that someone did inspect the premises before they were licensed. But, a licensed provider may charge you more money then someone who is unlicensed. A big part of choosing the right in-home childcare is by word of mouth. If you ask around, you will find out about the various places you can take your child/children and what each place offers. You may learn that one person spends a lot of time reading, teaching, and playing with the kids. While another has so many she can't keep track. Some provide lunch and snacks, while at others you have to take your own.
Once again, it depends on what you are looking for when considering a childcare situation for your child/children. The developmental needs, emotional needs, the amount of care you need, and the money you have budgeted for childcare expenses all need to be factored into your final decision. Check out all the available options in your area, get information, go into the facilities and homes and meet with the people who would be caring for your child/children before you make a choice. You and your child/children will be happier for it.