The article presents the main results of a study conducted by Ires on childcare targeted at under3-year-olds. After outlining information currently available on this issue, the following aspects are analysed: a) the diffusion of care services at the regional level; b) an estimate of expressed and unsatisfied demand; c) an overview of the functioning of such services with respect to family requirements. In conclusion, an analysis is conducted on the link between the difficulty in activating infant care services and the fragmentary and residual nature of local welfare systems in Italy.only subscribers can see the full article