Question: Is Cost of Child Care Too High?
Do you consider the cost of child care too high? Parents sometimes lament that the cost of child care seems excessive. But, is it really?
Answer: In reality, most child care providers can passionately and accurately argue that our kid's caregivers and early educators aren't paid nearly enough. The early years of a child's life are perhaps the most important times for emotional, physical, social, and even pre-academic development for our youngsters. Yet caregivers are among the lowest paid people in our country, with salaries much below our nation's teachers, even for those with advanced degrees and training. The low pay and high expectations and demands on caregivers often result in high turnover from the job.
Having said that, parents should carefully evaluate their budget in determining what type of child care option is practical and financially affordable. Typically, daycare centers cost less while in-home care comes at a premium. Care providers who watch your child in their home along with other children as well often fall into the middle range of cost.
Parents on a budget should look at hours needed for a caregiver, examine their philosophies of child care, and overall requirements for the family before making the important decision as to who will care for their child. While cost is always a factor, it should never be the sole reason for placement. Above all, parents should feel comfortable and confident in their chosen child care provider.
