Kid Watch 101: One Word or Two?

Childcare vs. Child Care

Here we will learn the difference between childcare and child care. Both words seem alike, but they have small differences.

History

The history of these words is interesting. People started using child care first, which means looking after children. Over time, as words change, childcare started to be used also, mainly in British English.

How to Use Them

Child care (two words) is mostly used in American English. It talks about the action or service of looking after children. Childcare (one word) is commonly used in British English and also refers to the action or service of taking care of children. Both mean the same, but style guides differ.

Trick to Remember

To remember the difference, think of childcare as one word (like it is often in Britain). For child care, recall it as two words (most common in America).

Example Sentences for “Childcare”

• The childcare service opens at 8 AM.
• There are many childcare options in our town.
• She works at a childcare center.
• We need to find good childcare for our baby.
• The childcare provider is very friendly.

Example Sentences for “Child Care”

• Finding reliable child care is important for working parents.
• My cousin is starting her own child care business.
• We should sign up early for child care services.
• He studies child care at college.
• The government supports affordable child care.

Summary

Childcare and child care both mean the act of taking care of children. Childcare is more often used in British English, while child care is usually used in American English. Use them based on who you are writing for or about.