Childcare vs. Daycare: What’s the Difference?
Language is a powerful tool. The words we use shape how we think, what we value, and how we treat people. One example is the terms “daycare” and “childcare.” Often used interchangeably, it may seem like there isn’t any difference between the two phrases, but they reflect a much deeper understanding of the value of early learning, educators, and children.
Why We Say “Childcare” and Not “Daycare”
Historically, the term “daycare” was used to describe a place where children were simply looked after during the day while their parents were at work. It implied supervision and safety, but not necessarily education, development, or enrichment.
At New Horizon Academy, we prefer the term “childcare”, which focuses on the child as a whole, and not the clock. It emphasizes the support, care, and learning that happens during these important early years of life. It tells a story of what the programs provide, which includes trained teachers, high-quality care, and an age-appropriate curriculum that focuses on nurturing cognitive, social-emotional, and physical growth.
The Importance of Early Childhood Education
We know that the early years are the most critical for human development. From birth to age 5, a child’s brain creates around a million new neural connections every second. These years shape how children learn, relate to others, and view the world.
Early childhood education helps with just that. Quality childcare programs don’t just “watch” children; they involve them in play-based, developmentally appropriate learning activities that give a solid foundation for their future success in school and in life.
Educators, not Babysitters
With this understanding, it’s easy to see why the adult professionals leading these programs are not simply “babysitters”. They are early childhood educators: skilled professionals with training in child development, classroom management, curriculum planning, and responsive caregiving. They foster a love for learning and support the development of social-emotional skills like empathy, resilience, and collaboration. They also notice developmental milestones and intervene early if support is needed.
Changing the way we talk about childcare and early childhood education isn’t simply about being politically correct. It’s about shifting public perception, policy, and respect. When we use “childcare” or “early childhood education” instead of “daycare”, we acknowledge:
- The developmental importance of the early years
- The professionalism of the educators involved
- The value of learning through play and exploration
- That children are not being passively “watched,” but actively supported
Using “childcare” instead of “daycare” is a small but meaningful way to show respect for the work being done in early learning childcare centers. Further, recognizing the role of early childhood educators signals that we see their work as not just essential, but as deeply impactful.
Enroll today and experience the New Horizon Academy difference!
New Horizon Academy is a nationally accredited preschool and early learning provider with over 100 schools across the United States. Our preschool and pre-k programs use a research-based curriculum to prepare children for kindergarten through a variety of developmentally appropriate and engaging activities to support physical, cognitive, language, and social-emotional development.
Schedule a tour to learn more about our highly trained teachers, safe and secure facilities, and commitment to providing the highest quality education and care. Contact a New Horizon Academy school near you today!