The Importance of Quality Child Care

There are three distinct components of the economic importance of child care:
1) child development,
2) parent labor force, and 
3) regional economic development.

As we begin to think of child care in economic terms, it becomes clearer that the impact of child care on children cannot be separated from the welfare of parents; the impact on parents cannot be separated from the health of the local economy where they live; and the health of the local economy cannot be separated from the quality of life it provides for its children.

First, children – Research in Vermont and nationally shows that children in high quality child care are more prepared for school and to be part of the future workforce.

Parents - Child care affects parents' productivity, career choices and their ability to move within the workforce. Employers increasingly find that the availability of good child care, preschool and afterschool programs is critical to the recruitment and retention of parent employees.

Regional economy – Child care facilities are businesses that operate in the regional economy. They employ people, pay taxes, buy goods and services, and serve children across town boundary lines.