The Economist: Childcare Challenges – Wilson County News [Video]

One of the most significant problems facing working parents is finding high-quality, affordable child care. It’s an issue not only for the families involved, but also for the workforce, the economy, society, and long-term prosperity. It’s a complex milieu which I certainly can’t fully untangle in the space of a brief column, but let’s examine a few critical points.

Child care providers are facing notable challenges. Operating expenses have risen, and some facilities are unable to remain financially viable. In addition, it is very difficult to find employees due to general labor shortages and low wages in the industry (averaging $11-$13 per hour). With insufficient staff, potential enrollment is curtailed. The inevitable outcome is a vicious cycle of worsening shortages.

For parents, affordability is essential. Care for an infant can cost well over $10,000 per year, more than tuition, books, and fees at some four-year universities. For families with multiple …