In a perfect world, every child would get the undivided attention of a parent until she is ready to start school. But the reality is far different. The Center for Workforce Studies has found that half of all parents with children a year old share the duties of childcare with someone else. This may be a family member, an in-home caregiver or a childcare center. Quality childcare is vital to the young child’s physical, intellectual and social development. The National Association of Social Workers recommends small class sizes to ensure that every child gets enough attention. Caregivers for infants should have a ratio of no more than three infants, and caregivers for toddlers should have no more than four children.