When choosing a childcare location, review all of your options, ask around, look at reviews but most importantly, CALL and speak with someone at the center and visit because nothing is more important than seeing it in person and speaking to the person responsible for the care of your child all day. Lastly, trust your gut!
PROS
This environment often feels warmer, like a home away from home
Is often much less expensive than a commercial center
Typically have many more to choose from in your desired location than commercial centers
Usually the same caregiver and assistant all day, each day, from birth -5 years creating continuity of care
Mixed age groups, usually from birth -5 which can be beneficial to children
Can often meet the needs of families with multiple children because of mixed group
Often develop a strong relationship
Ratios and max size typically lower than traditional commercial center (depending on state)
CONS
May be no substitute care if home provider is sick or unavailable
Can be tough to manage curriculum in mixed aged program
If it's a shared space, or they have their own children, toys may not solely be used for childcare
Less qualifications required by licensing agencies (depending on your state)
My take:
Family childcare can be a great option for those looking for a quality care program costing less money. All in all, what's important will be the same whether you are visiting a family or commercial center so figure out what is most important to you and when you visit, ask questions surrounding those things.