If you're looking for a caregiver with formal training in early education, home daycare probably isn't for you. Unlike employees in a childcare center, Mrs. Johnson down the street probably hasn't taken any child development classes lately. Some states do require home daycare providers to complete a certain number of hours of care and safety courses, but that's no substitute for college courses or a certificate in early childhood education. Licensing requirements for home daycares are usually less than stringent. Some states and counties do require licensing, but most don't. If you live in an area without licensing requirements, you'll have to rely on your own judgment – and eye for safety and sanitation hazards – to make sure the environment is acceptable for your baby.
Another drawback is that there may not be a backup caregiver available if your provider gets sick or takes a vacation (unless she finds a substitute). If you don't have an understanding boss or backup childcare, you may end up using all your own vacation and sick days staying home with your child. That may make the extra costs of a center – with its guaranteed care – worth it for you.