Child Care Assistance and Child Development

Children are more likely to achieve long-term success when they begin school ready to succeed. But school readiness involves more than just a high-quality early learning experience. Children also are more likely to be ready for school when they have a stable, nurturing family environment with parents who have the economic security to promote learning. For many families, low-wage jobs with inflexible schedules and a lack of resources for high-quality child care create profound stress that inhibits the healthy environment children need for a strong start. Child care assistance for low-income families comes mainly from the federal Child Care and Development Block Grant. State and local governments contribute to a lesser degree with only very modest funding from the private sector. This help for families ...