The “Kids Count” survey, released by the children’s advocacy group Annie E. Casey Foundation, reveals that quality childcare is often either difficult to find or too expensive, especially for low-income parents and parents who work non-traditional hours.
The study argued that children in low income families are the ones who can benefit most from quality child care, yet they are the least likely to obtain it. “Millions of children who could benefit from early care and education programs do not have access to them …. To many children in low income families spend time in makeshift, temporary arrangements that let their parents work, but lack the stimulating environment children need to thrive,” read the report.
An estimated 3.5 million children are left alone for some period of time
