At some point in many children's lives, parents are faced with the difficult question, "What about child care?" Intended for both parents and providers, this guide is designed to help parents decide whether family child care is suited to their needs, guiding them through the process of choosing a provider and allowing them a look behind the scenes to see what makes family child care work, from a provider's perspective. Each of the first four chapters is divided into a section for parents and one for providers. The chapters are: (1) "Choosing Family Day Care" including factors for determining whether such work is suitable for a potential provider, and a checklist of pros and cons of family day care; (2) "Finding a Provider" including home visits and interview questions; (3) "The Parent/Provider Bill of Rights"; (4) "Home Rule," on reinforcing the child's home environment, not replacing it; (5) "The Business Side of Day Care," such as management, budgeting, cost saving tips, marketing, facility, set up, and parent handbook; (6) "Dotting I's and Crossing T's," forms, contracts, and other paper work; and (7) "Curriculum--Planning and Parent Involvement." Chapter 8 is a brief closing note from the author and the address for the Parent/Provider Information Network. An appendix contains creative activities for children in areas including arts and crafts, dramatic play, language, music, multicultural activities, and science. (HTH)