How did you and your child decide whether to apply early decision or early action

As @lr4550 has mentioned it, I wil toot my own horn and link this thread here. It has an abundance of insightful comments from CCers, as well. You may find it relevant, as my D applied to some schools your child is considering.

http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/parents-forum/1878059-truthful-advice-about-getting-into-top-colleges-for-your-average-excellent-student-p1.html