Quality Childcare

Hello Friends,
As the end of the school year approaches, many parents are celebrating another year of accomplishments, graduations and preparing for post-secondary education. For many parents, it can also be a time of stress planning for childcare, summer camps and other activities to keep their child or children busy and occupied.

Access to quality childcare continues to be one of the largest concerns for parents in Kansas and across the nation. Lack of quality childcare contributes to workforce shortages as families must weigh the costs of childcare compared to their wages. Finding a resolution is a complex challenge. It is estimated that infant childcare is 1.3 times more expensive than in-state college tuition and care for a 4-year-old is equal to in-state college tuition. Early childhood educators, also known as childcare providers, earn 4.3% less in an annual salary compared to teachers in K-8 education. Since 2017, there has been a 6% decrease in available childcare slots.

There are no easy solutions to the childcare crisis, but you can take the time to learn more about it and join the conversation. Active involvement by the public is the only way we will find a meaningful solution for children and families.

Sincerely,

Gail Cozadd
KCSL CEO