Re child-care, an option to think about is contact your local Community Centre and see if they run something like "occasional care", which is usually a small group of kids in a structured program for a few hours (like 9am-1pm) and is usually substantially cheaper than using a commercial childcare centre.

I agree that MCHN's are a great resource - you should be able to link with one, perhaps check with your local council and request that they put you in touch.

Good luck and take care