Childcare centre or let grandparents look after baby? Torn.

We did a hybrid and it was the best of both, so consider that before choosing one extreme. Grandparents give love, one-on-one attention and continuity that no centre matches at that age, and the cost saving is huge, but you're right that energy and structured stimulation are real concerns, chasing a toddler all day is exhausting for someone in their 60s. What worked for us: grandma looked after our girl 3 days, and we put her in childcare 2 days for socialisation and structured play. Grandma got rest days, our kid got peer interaction, and we still saved a lot versus full childcare. Also remember the government infant/childcare subsidies (basic plus additional based on income) make centres more affordable than the sticker price, check what you'd actually pay after subsidy before assuming it's unaffordable. Whatever you choose, at 1 year old the biggest developmental need is responsive, loving care, and grandma wins on that hands down. Socialisation matters more from 2 to 3 onwards, so you have time. Don't discount grandma's option out of "structured learning" guilt.