The share of U.S. families paying more than $2,000 monthly for child care has more than doubled since 2023, according to Bank of America Institute. Average costs now exceed the federal affordability benchmark.
Kyra Betts, 37, said she frequently has her children with her while she's working because she doesn't have access to affordable childcare during all of her working hours. "It makes it difficult for people to take you serious," she said.
Azteca Druce Valerio-Bedolla, 26, and her husband 26-year-old Tanner Druce Valerio-Bedolla and their kids: 7-year-old Octavia Druce Valerio-Bedolla, 4-year-old Opal Druce Valerio-Bedolla and 3-year-old Osiris Druce Valerio-Bedolla. "How are we supposed to work less, but pay our bills, but still stay under this income limit and qualify?" Azteca Druce Valerio-Bedolla said.
Kyra Betts, 37, said she frequently has her children with her while she's working because she doesn't have access to affordable childcare during all of her working hours. "It makes it difficult for people to take you serious," she said.
Azteca Druce Valerio-Bedolla, 26, and her husband 26-year-old Tanner Druce Valerio-Bedolla and their kids: 7-year-old Octavia Druce Valerio-Bedolla, 4-year-old Opal Druce Valerio-Bedolla and 3-year-old Osiris Druce Valerio-Bedolla. "How are we supposed to work less, but pay our bills, but still stay under this income limit and qualify?" Azteca Druce Valerio-Bedolla said.
