Who Will Mind the Babies?

This policy statement provides a framework for thinking about the many issues involved in developing assurance of adequate child care opportunities for infants and toddlers under 3 years of age. Specifically, the statement discusses (1) the special needs of infants and toddlers; (2) public policies to provide both financial and emotional support for parents who remain at home to care for infants and toddlers; (3) professional recognition, certification, and training for caregivers of infants and toddlers; (4) financing, regulating, and accrediting adequate day care and educating consumers; and (5) policy-relevant research issues concerning child care for very young children. It is argued that addressing the child care needs of infants and toddlers and their families is a process that must involve parents; professionals; employers; voluntary, community, and religious groups; and government. National Center staff are available to assist policymakers in locating research and clinical data that will help those seeking approaches to infant and toddler child care. (CB)