Parents in Ohio who are struggling to find good child care are not alone. About 39% of Ohio families live in "child care deserts," which means there are either no licensed child care providers nearby, or there are more than three children under age 5 for every available child care spot.
This problem is even bigger in rural areas and in Appalachian counties, where around 60% of communities do not have enough early learning programs. That's much higher than the state average.
The lack of child care is not only hard on families, but it also hurts Ohio's economy. When parents can't find care, they miss work or have to leave jobs. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation estimates Ohio loses about $5.48 billion each year in employer earnings and tax revenue because of child care issues.
Why high-quality child care matters
For parents and caregivers, not having good child care affects everything — family budgets, jobs and peace of mind. Being able to afford safe, high-quality child care near home or work helps parents do better at their jobs. It also means children are learning and growing in a safe, caring place while parents are working.
A solution for families in Ohio
KinderCare Learning Companies, one of the nation's leading providers of early childhood education, offers more than 160 programs across Ohio for children from 6 weeks old through school age. KinderCare helps kids build confidence for life by creating safe, caring places where they can learn and grow.
Programs include flexible full-time and part-time options to fit family needs. Their research-based curriculum is taught by trained teachers who make learning fun while helping kids reach key milestones.
"All children in Ohio deserve access to safe, high-quality early learning that gives them the confidence and skills they'll carry for life," said Dr. Marquita Davis, KinderCare's chief academic officer. "Parents deserve to know their children are cared for by well-trained teachers while they work hard to support their families."
KinderCare centers are accredited, safe and clean, and they have earned the WELL Health-Safety Rating™. Children also enjoy healthy, kid-approved meals that fuel growing bodies and brains.
"High-quality child care helps children and families thrive," added Davis. "It's important for parents to know there are trusted options available."
To learn more or to find one of KinderCare's 160 accredited centers in Ohio, visit KinderCare.com.
