Child Care Decision-Making Literature Review

Many factors influence parents’ decision-making in their child care choices. This literature review provides an overview of empirical knowledge about the factors that influence parents’ decision-making in their child care choices. Findings from the literature are organized into four main sections reflecting empirical findings about: 1) parents’ child care decision-making processes, 2) parents’ preferences and priorities in selecting a care arrangement, 3) constraints to selecting preferred care arrangements, and 4) policies and programs that support parents in selecting their preferred care arrangement. The authors review implications for policy and practice. Child Trends produced this review as part of the Child Care and Early Education Policy and Research Analysis.