The Childcare Crisis: Why American Families Are Struggling and What Can Be Done

Childcare costs are a major burden for American families, with 69% of parents struggling to afford them and 28% forced to stop using childcare services entirely. The average annual cost of childcare per child is $11,582—higher than rent or mortgage payments in many areas. Many parents have reached a breaking point, prompting questions about how to address the growing childcare crisis.

With so many Americans struggling to cover the cost of childcare, it is clear that this is a systemic issue. Despite some proposals by lawmakers in Congress, the issue has been minimally addressed. Vice President-elect JD Vance even suggested relying on grandparents for “free” care—a solution unrealistic for many, especially as families are often geographically scattered, and older adults delay retirement.

What Are the Options?

For parents without affordable childcare or family support, finding solutions can be challenging. One option is for one parent to stay home, but this often reduces household income significantly and may not be sustainable long-term. Another approach is for parents to work opposite shifts, allowing one to be home with the children while the other works. However, this can lead to stress and reduce family time. Some families explore nanny shares with neighbors or seek out lower-cost childcare options through local churches, preschools, or community programs. While these alternatives may not work for everyone, the key is to find a safe and affordable arrangement by reaching out to your network and starting the search early.