Dave Edwards and It’s Just my Take, 5-17-24
Raising kids in today’s generation is difficult. And then add to that challenge the task of finding quality day care, sometimes for more than one child. Good luck, say many in the field today.
As my wife and I raised our 3 kids, we had good and bad luck in finding quality care. For today’s families, the task is securing ANY care at all. That can also entail months or more on a waiting list. Add on the rising costs and it’s equivalent to paying tuition at a quality college. Plus, more daycare workers are leaving the field for greener pastures, further reducing your daycare choices.
And then there’s the question many couples face: do one of you attempt to work at home to cut costs and increase the bonding time with your children? Also not easy as more employers are pushing employees to come back to the office, or else.
It’s no wonder that many young couples are thinking twice about having any kids, or trying to have just one child.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-birth-rate-drops-record-low-2023-after-pandemic-uptick/
Congress has been asked to increase funding for childcare, but most bills have failed for various reasons, mostly how to pay for it. No easy solution here, but an assist in broader tax credits for the parents and higher pay for workers sounds like a good start.
[CBS News]
