This week’s child care in the news stories cover a range of issues impacting the child care sector, from federal tax credits and the affordable child care crisis to a look at international approaches. With the upcoming election, child care affordability and worker support are increasingly pressing topics in both policy and public discourse.
1. Ending the Child Tax Credit Leaves Families Struggling
Associated Press reports that the end of the expanded child tax credit has left many families struggling to make ends meet, impacting millions of children. Advocates argue that the credit’s expiration has pushed more families back into poverty, underscoring the need for renewed policy action to support working families. Read more: Associated Press
2. The Crisis of Affordable Child Care
According to Motherly, the child care affordability crisis has intensified, with costs becoming an unmanageable burden for many families. This article highlights the lack of affordable options and the impact it has on parents, especially mothers, who are often forced to make career sacrifices due to the high cost of child care. Read more: Motherly
3. Elizabeth Warren on Curbing Child Care Costs This Election
MarketWatch shares insights from Senator Elizabeth Warren, who believes the upcoming election could bring about significant reforms to address soaring child care costs. Warren emphasizes that affordable child care is crucial for economic stability and that policies supporting it could be within reach if voters prioritize the issue. Read more: MarketWatch
4. Nearly Half of Child Care Teachers Rely on Public Assistance
A report highlighted by The Hechinger Report reveals that two out of five child care teachers earn wages low enough to qualify for public assistance. The article sheds light on the economic difficulties faced by child care providers and calls for improved wages and benefits to support these essential workers. Read more: The Hechinger Report
5. How Germany Makes Child Care Affordable
Vox examines Germany’s child care model, known as “Kita,” which provides affordable options for parents and could offer insights for the U.S. The article compares Germany’s approach to child care accessibility and affordability, highlighting the benefits of a publicly funded system and its positive impact on families. Read more: Vox