I worked in a day care and I've been a nanny. I must tell you that I preferred being a nanny.
I worked with 18-24 month olds for a chain day care (Rocking Horse in Northern Virginia in the 1990's) and I remember catching colds and viruses, watching co-dependent colleagues get into really weird dynamics with the kids, and generally falling into the rut of the center's routine. I do think that it's great for a toddler's socialisation skills, but a day care is a little too rote for my taste.
On the other hand, as a nanny, I came into the family's house and spent time in the kids environment. The kids were older (8 and 11) but I'd say it wouldn't matter much. I found the family through a local classified ad and the mother, who is an attorney, interviewed 5 candidates and ran background checks on everyone before choosing me.
I'd recommend that you consider the last option. You can exert much more influence over what happens, and you can always check in anytime you want.
BTW- both jobs paid the same for me!
