Child care affects employers’ bottom line
Employers, parents, potential child care providers and interested residents are invited to learn more about the status and upcoming needs for child care in Greene County at a come-and-go eventTuesday, Sept. 30, from to 7 pm at the Greene County ISU Extension office.
Studies show that 84 percent of families with children under age 6 in Greene County live in households where all parents are working. The state average is 74 percent, which is one of the highest rates of working parents in the nation. This means that Greene County needs an adequate supply of child care that is dependable and high quality.
A parent who is unhappy with the family’s child care arrangement may be distracted on the job because of worry about the children. Breakdown in an employee’s child care arrangements can cost an employer in terms of absenteeism, tardiness and reduced concentration when the employee is at work. Products may not be manufactured, orders may not be delivered and customers may not be served in a timely manner if an employee misses work due to lack of dependable child care.
Having availability of quality child care can affect the economic development of an entire area. Employers in areas that have an adequate supply of child care experience lower employee turnover, more satisfied employees, less training costs and increased productivity. Child care businesses also add to the local economy in terms of goods and services purchased, paying taxes and providing the service so parents can work.
For information on child care, contact Carol Jensen, Child Care Resource and Referral business and community specialist, at 800-945-9778.
