Welfare Reform, Work and Child Care

Low-wage mothers spoke out about child care arrangements in two MDRC studies that offer a reality check for policymakers and advocates concerned with quality child care and early development. Based on their findings, researchers say policymakers need to focus on both formal and informal care, and how these arrangements are often combined in the daily lives of low-income children. They should also note that families have limited control over their child care options -- money, sparse options in low-resource neighborhoods, and job inflexibility all play a big role.