Search for Child Care Options

You have started your search by reviewing the Know Your Needs and What to Look For areas of our web site. We also suggest that you review information specific to the age of your child.

At Action for Children, we maintain a database of over 1,300 child care and early learning providers in central Ohio. We can assist you in finding a provider who meets your criteria. You have three ways to begin:

Contact us by phone for the most comprehensive and personalized service.

Email your referral request and an Action for Children resource specialist will respond to your request within one business day to help you focus your search. 

Search Our Data Base on Your Own (eSearch) 

If you are looking for services in a county outside of central Ohio, you can visit the Ohio Child Care Resource & Referral Association  online for a comprehensive database of providers throughout the state. 

If you are looking for services outside the state of Ohio, please visit the National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies online to find child care and early learning programs in any state throughout the U.S. 

After receiving your referrals, you can use the information in the Take the Time checklist to visit with potential providers and ask the questions that will help you in your child care decision.  

Choosing quality care is important, no matter which type of care you decide to use.  Remember, your job doesn’t end once you’ve made your decision.  Remain involved, talk regularly with your provider and drop in occasionally to assess how things are going. 


Take the Time

Choosing Child Care and Early Learning Experiences
Use these checklists and guides to help you make your child care and early learning decisions.

Quality Assurance

Action for Children's consumer services are Quality Assured by the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies. more