Which type of program cares for the majority of children under age 5 in the United States?

The correct answer highlights the significant role that relatives play in the care of children under age 5 in the United States. Historically and culturally, many families rely on relatives, like grandparents, aunts, or other family members, to provide care for young children. This arrangement often offers flexibility, emotional support, and a nurturing environment that parents trust.

This type of care generally allows for a more personalized approach to child-rearing, where family members can tailor their care to the individual child's needs. Additionally, using relatives for childcare can often be more economical than enrolling children in formal care programs. While childcare centers, preschools, and daycare facilities play essential roles in early childhood education and care, they serve a portion of the population that may be smaller than the number of children cared for by relatives. Understanding this dynamic underscores the importance of familial support in early childhood development.