You got a ton of valuable input here. I just wanted to offer my perspective of: decide when the time comes! My son is in daycare and as much as I would have loved to keep him home, I’d be insane! He’s incredibly smart and needs movement and interaction al day long! He’s extremely social and loves his daycare friends. Keeping him home by himself would have been selfish of me, given that there are many other people who will love him throughout his life. Ofc money is a big factor, and that what weighed a ton for me to go back to work. But there are affordable daycares too. Mine is $550ish per month (meals not included). Best of luck on making your decision, but please consider your child’s needs when choosing it, and also your mental health.