Childcare Tools & Calculators
Make confident childcare decisions with our free interactive tools. Calculate costs, compare providers, and find the perfect fit for your family.
Childcare Cost Calculator
Compare costs for daycare, nanny, au pair, and more. Includes tax credit calculations and work vs. stay home analysis.
What Childcare is Right for Me?
Answer 7 quick questions to discover which childcare type best fits your family's needs, schedule, and budget.
Provider Comparison Tool
Rate and compare up to 4 childcare providers side-by-side. Perfect for narrowing down your final decision.
Nanny Payroll Calculator
Calculate your nanny's pay, taxes, and total cost. Includes employer tax obligations and payment log.
Babysitter Rate Calculator
Find out what to pay your babysitter based on location, experience, number of kids, and special circumstances.
Subsidy Eligibility Checker
Check if you qualify for childcare subsidies, Head Start, state pre-K, and other assistance programs.
Daycare Waitlist Tracker
Track all your daycare applications and waitlist positions in one place. Set follow-up reminders and compare options.
The companion book
The Childcare Decision Workbook
by Casey Morgan
Compare daycare, nanny, nanny share, au pair, and family care by cost and fit, with tour checklists, interview questions, tax worksheets, and a budget planner. A fill-in workbook, so it is printed paperback only.
Done calculating? Shop the setup.
Our Childcare Setup Kits are three ready-to-shop lists with real products and totals: the Nanny Share Setup Kit, Working Parent Command Center, and New Sibling Prep Kit.
Why Use Our Tools?
Data-Driven
Our calculators use real 2024-2025 cost data from across the country.
Personalized
Get results tailored to your location, income, and family needs.
100% Free
No sign-up required. Use all tools instantly, as many times as you need.
The printable planning kit
Not Sure Where to Start?
Take our 2-minute quiz to find out which childcare option is best for your family.
Take the QuizRelated Guides
How Much Does Child Care Cost?
Complete 2026 breakdown by type and state.
7 Childcare Options Compared
Pros, cons, and costs explained.
How to Hire a Nanny
Complete hiring and payroll guide.
Best Nap Mat for Daycare
Top toddler and preschool nap mats for 2026.
Au Pair vs Nanny Costs
Side-by-side annual cost comparison.
Daycare & Childcare Essentials
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