The 2000 census reported that of among the nation’s 19.6 million preschoolers:

• 21% were cared for by grandparents
• 17% were cared for by their father while their mother was employed or in school
• 12% were in day care centers
• 9% were cared for by other relatives
• 7% were cared for by a family day care provider in their home
• 6% received care in nursery schools or preschools
• Over 1/3 of preschoolers (7.2 million) had no regular child-care arrangement and presumably were under maternal care

Day care establishments are defined as those primarily engaged in care of infants or children, or in providing pre-kindergarten education, where medical care and/or behavioral correction are not a primary function or major element. Some may or may not have substantial educational programs, and some may care for older children when they are not in school.

What are the risks of contagious illness exposure?
When should my child stay home?
How can I prevent illness at day care?