Post Reports Why child-care workers are quitting
Oct 11, 2021
Heather Long, an Economics correspondent for The Washington Post, dives into the urgent issue of the child-care worker shortage. She discusses the low wages and lack of benefits that drive workers away, exacerbated by the pandemic. The ripple effects are significant, leaving parents, particularly mothers, struggling to return to work. Long emphasizes the emotional and economic toll this crisis has on families and highlights the pressing need for investment in early childhood education to retain and attract qualified staff.
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Lack of Childcare Spots
- The US lacks sufficient childcare spots, partly due to pandemic effects.
- The industry's low average wage of $12.24/hour, often without benefits, exacerbates the problem.
Insufficient Raises
- Tansy Roberts received a $0.15 raise despite increased workload.
- This small increase, coupled with burnout, led her to question the job's value.
Widespread Shortage
- Childcare shortages are widespread across the US, affecting both urban and rural areas.
- Unlike other businesses, closed daycares rarely get replaced, worsening the shortage.